Verna Theurer Wood died peacefully in Sandy, Utah on February 13, 2016 at the age of 94.
Verna was born on October 18, 1921 in Tremonton, Utah to Alma R. and Arverna Grant Theurer. She was one of six siblings: Barbara, Grant, Mildred, Anna, and Roselyn. Verna valued her happy childhood and fondly remembered camping and fishing trips. Verna graduated as valedictorian from Bear River High School in 1939, and then went on to Utah State University where she met her future husband, Melvin H. Wood. The two were married in 1941. Verna became a "war wife" when Mel joined the Army to fight in World War II. Luckily, Mel came home safe and sound. After Mel's graduation, the family moved to Ogden where their home resounded with laughter and fun as Verna orchestrated taffy pulls, board and card games or the making of popcorn balls and caramel apples.
Four children, Dennis, Rebecca, Kent and Connie were born in a period of seven years, and Verna proved to be an exemplary mother, mentor, and role-model. While her children were young, Verna led her children and their friends through various 4H Club programs such as cooking, home-making, and entomology. She was also the Brownie and Girl Scout leader and the Cub Scout Den Mother.
Verna returned to Utah State to finish her teaching degree and ultimately earned a master's degree as well. She taught elementary school for 25 years in Weber School District. Hundreds of students benefited from her passion for learning. She spent countless hours planning lessons and activities to help students get engaged with the subject matter.
Mel and Verna retired in 1985, and both embraced these years in a variety of ways, from scuba diving, world-wide adventures, gardening, and being hands-on grandparents. Their grandkids knew that they would be in attendance at soccer games, dance recitals, swim meets, etc. The grandkids also always looked forward to North Ogden visits, as Verna kept them entertained with hikes, stories, craft projects, igloo building, cooking, and picnics. She made those visits magical for her grandkids. Verna was active in civic groups and literature clubs, and she also took up the hobby of golf and enjoyed playing at the Ogden Golf and Country Club.
Two of Verna's greatest joys were entertaining and bridge. Hundreds of people have attended brunch, dinner, and holiday parties where she was renowned for her great cooking ability and her world famous rolls. Verna was an ace card shark, and she enjoyed teaching bridge to others as well as playing in numerous clubs and tournaments.
Verna leaves her family and friends with many wonderful memories to treasure. Her intellectual curiosity, generous nature, and devotion to family and friends will always remain with us.
Verna is survived by her children, Rebecca Wood, Kent (Kimberly) Wood, and Connie (Walt) Amos; 10 grandchildren; 12 great grandchildren; sister, Roselyn Nelson; and numerous nephews and nieces.
She is preceded in death by her husband, Mel; son, Dennis (Carla) Wood; and most of her siblings. We are extremely grateful to Sunrise of Sandy, especially Lyle and Amy for their devotion and care.
A family celebration of Verna's life will be held in her honor at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the Girl Scouts of Utah, 445 East 4500 South, Salt Lake City, 84107 in Verna's name.
