Jennifer Mary Aileen Wood

Jennifer Wood died in her home by the Muskoka River in Bracebridge surrounded by her close loving family. Jennifer lived in Bracebridge for 44 years with her husband John (d. 2021) with whom she had 63 years of great happiness. She leaves behind daughters Joan(Gary), Vivian (Tim), son John and granddaughters Mirabai, Fae and Sila. Jennifer often said, “Animals must be treated well” and she walked the talk. She was a great supporter of the Ontario Humane Society and served as first president of the local chapter. Jennifer was a founding board member that supported Aspen Valley Wildlife Sanctuary. Many residents might know she held a successful pet sitting business for 30 years from 1985-2015. Jennifer was proud of her running ‘career’ which started later in life. “I went and bought a pair of running shoes at a store on Manitoba St and just started. On my first run I went to Santa's Village and back, and then began entering local and regional races.” She went on to complete 5 marathons: Ottawa, Toronto, London, Boston and her favourite one, Nanasivik to Arctic Bay, Northwest Territories. Jennifer took daily early morning swims from May long weekend to Thanksgiving. She always loved walking and bicycling instead of driving. Jennifer had many good and kind neighbours on Brofoco Drive. Her neighbours have commented how often they observed her walking her dog no matter the weather, and admired her distinctive colourful wardrobe. Jennifer was a seamstress, quilter and master knitter and known in the family for always having a beautiful project on the go. Her motto was “if you are going to make something, use good materials”. Jennifer loved the opera and live theatre all her life, and shared that enjoyment with her children and grandchildren. Jennifer, along with her husband John were dedicated to caring for the natural environment and had a particular dedication to eliminating the use of lawn pesticides. Jennifer donated her body to the Anatomy Program at the University of Guelph. Special thanks to Tara Green RN and Dr Shannon Lees. There will be no ceremony. Donations to the Aspen Valley Wildlife Sanctuary appreciated.