Claudette Ann Wood, 78, peacefully passed away on, April 23, 2014, while under the gentle and loving care of family and  the Coronado House staff of Hospice of the Valley, Phoenix, Arizona

This obituary is written by her children; we feel confident the mother we know was the same friend, cousin, in-law that you know too.

Claudette Ann Wood was born, December 4, 1935, in Columbus, Ohio to Hazel Frasch Hittepole and Carvel James Hittepole.  They resided in Findley, Ohio until she and her mother moved to Phoenix. Claudette is a 1954 graduate of West High School.

She recieved a Diploma in Nursing in 1959 from Good Samaritan Hospital School of Nursing in Phoenix, AZ. Later in 1968, her sister-in-law, Sharon Thorwald, also graduated from the same nursing school. Sharon was an important person and loving friend to Mom.

Claudette married, became a military wife and promptly giving birth to five children.  The Army afforded our family 20 years of traveling throughout America and Europe.  There were many opportunities to visit historical sites, learn the culture of the countries, attend national parks, family homes/reunions, water skiing and swimming, castle hunting, and church retreats.  Her retirement brought more travel in her RV, her little "turtle".   Mom retained many of the friends from all the travels, thinking of them as special people.

Early on, Mom started her humanitarian mission with the American Red Cross, volunteering for 10+ years before working for another 10 years.   Initially, she used her nursing skills to teach CPR/First Aid  with us kids as “victims” splinted, wrapped, and carried off in class simulations.  Community Blood Drives were always an important event too.  In her staff position, she coordinated social services for those in need and America’s military families. Trained in disaster relief, she responded to disasters ranging from fires, floods, earthquakes, and tornadoes. The American Red Cross was very important in her life and gave her much enjoyment.

Mom had many hobbies in puzzles, sewing, crocheting, quilting, and square dancing. Square dancing became a real love for her to enjoy the dresses, music, friends and of course the travel!

Mom also volunteered at Area Agency on Aging in Phoenix, AZ, for 15 years.  She worked with her youngest daughter on numerous projects and activities.  Area Agency considered her a valuable asset.

Claudette’s greatest joy and pride came in her family, every generation.  She lovingly cared for her parents, aunts, and cousins that preceded her.  She is survived by her 5 children and spouses: JoLyn Hayes (Jimmy), William Wood (Valerie), Stephanie Katzenmeyer, Carole Pitre (Dean) of Texas, and Zina Pew (Bobby) of Arizona.  7 grandchildren:  Jeremiah Johnson, Joshua Johnson (Mandy) of North Carolina, Sara Wood, Jessica Wood, David Katzenmeyer, Marcus Katzenmeyer, and Austin Pitre (Dina) of Texas.  2 great-grandchildren: Julian Pitre and Drake Johnson.

She has experienced God’s beautiful earth fully and will live in His kingdom forever. Her final resting spot will be in Ohio near her mother and father.  The family will be hosting a Celebration of Life later in the summer.  Contributions in the name of Claudette Wood can be made to your local American Red Cross or to the Area Agency on Aging at 1366 East Thomas Road, Suite 108, Phoenix Arizona 85014.