James "Jim" Wood passed away on Monday, June 12, 2023 at the age of 91.  He was a resident of Yuma for 17 years.  Jim was born in Hubbard, Texas and moved with his family to Holtville, California when he was 15 years old.

He served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War and was the recipient of a National Defense Service Medal, a United Nations Service Medal, a Korean Service Medal, and a Bronze Service Star.

If you knew Jim at all, you knew him to be a cowboy (including the hat and boots).  He was a member of the International Rodeo Association and for many years he participated in rodeos throughout Southern California and Arizona as a team roper "heeler".

Prior to retiring, Jim was a heavy equipment operator for 35 years with the Operating Engineers Union Local 12.  He worked on several projects over the years including several of the major freeway systems in San Diego and Los Angeles Counties.

Jim had a quiet, gentle, and kind way about him.  He enjoyed a good joke or story and could find humor in any situation.  Family always came first in his life.  He will be greatly missed.

He is survived by his brother Marvin E. Wood, his daughters, Elizabeth Wood and Roi-Ann Bressi, his 5 grandchildren Shawna S., Tanya W., John W., Annjalee W., and Gabriel W. and three great grandchildren Joey, Jia and Isabella. He is predeceased by his brothers Warren E. Wood, Bill R. Wood, sister Betti Frances Wood and grandson Joseph Bressi.

A memorial service will be held in the fall at Evergreen Cemetery in El Centro