Bonnie G. Wood, Ph.D.

Bonnie G. Wood, Ph.D., age 86, of Bangor, Maine, passed away unexpectedly with close friends at her side on Wednesday morning, April 6, 2022, at Northern Light EMMC. She was born January 13, 1936, in Linneus, Maine, a daughter of the late Guy W. and Velma Byron Wood.

Bonnie was preceded in death by her life partner, world traveling companion, best friend and wife, Jane E. McGlauflin, and her sister, Linda D. (Wood) Kennedy. Bonnie is survived by her cousin Clair Wood, of Veazie, her uncle Wendell Wood, of Portland, two nephews, B. Keith Kennedy, of Old Town and William H. Kennedy Jr., of Falls Church, Virginia, and one grandniece, Alexandra L. Kennedy, of Falls Church. She also leaves many other loving family members and friends.

Dr. Wood was a lifelong student, scientist, educator and patron of the arts. She earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Medical Technology from the University of Maine Orono in 1957, a Master of Science Degree in Science Education from the University of Pennsylvania, and Master of Science and Doctorate Degrees in Zoology from UMO. Following undergraduate studies, she began her career teaching science to high schoolers in private schools, including the Tatnall School in Wilmington, DE; Higgins Classical Institute in Charleston, ME; and the Children’s Science School at Wood’s Hole, MA. Recognized for academic excellence, she was awarded a one-year academic scholarship at the University of Pennsylvania, during which she obtained a master’s degree in science education. Following the award of her Ph.D. and post-doctoral work, she became a member of the Zoology faculty at UMO in 1974, where she remained until her retirement in 1997, serving as Chairperson of the Department of Zoology for many years. In 1978 Dr. Wood was selected by the NIH to participate in its program to promote participation of women and ethnic minorities in NIH supported research. She also served as a research scientist at Jackson Laboratory conducting cancer research. Additionally, for nearly 25 years Dr. Wood helped lead the partnership in medical technology between the University of Maine and Eastern Maine Medical Center, a program that sent hundreds of expert medical technologists to labs throughout Maine and New England. Many of those graduates went on to become medical doctors, researchers and professors leading their fields. Dr. Wood led by example, held her students and herself to high standards, and taught courage, professionalism and friendship to all who had the good fortune to learn from her.

Bonnie was a much-loved member of the Oratorio Society of the University of Maine, performing as an alto in large choral-orchestral masterworks in conjunction with the Bangor Symphony Orchestra for more than two decades. She was an accomplished pianist and enjoyed drawing and watercolor art. Lucky were the friends and relatives each year who received one of her hand-drawn or painted landscapes or mischievous little mice in a home-made greeting card. She generously supported the BSO financially each year. Through it all, she maintained a sparkling sense of humor and a legendary sweet tooth, often commenting that, “a well-balanced diet consists of chocolate in each hand.” And the books – oh, the books! Bonnie had a contagious appetite for books. Some claim that she never let a book go in all her life. She certainly left an impressive personal library.

Avid travelers, Bonnie and Jane cruised the width and breadth of the United States in their motorhome following retirement. They enjoyed visiting national parks in each state and dropping in on their many friends and colleagues around the country. They also travelled the world together, visiting Western and Eastern Europe, Russia, China, Southeast Asia and North Africa, making many friends as they went. When she wasn’t travelling, Bonnie enjoyed quiet Maine summers at her cottage in Brooklin, Maine, hosting lobster feeds for friends and family. Those fortunate enough to be present on the 4th of July were always served poached salmon and new peas.

Bonnie, you were a mentor and hero to so many of us, raising our awareness, extending our horizons, shaping and guiding our lives and careers. You were courageous and honest, befriending and teaching, sometimes chastising and always loving. We will miss you, treasure you and remember you always!

A celebration of Bonnie’s life will be held graveside 11:00 a.m. Saturday, June 11, 2022, at Mount Hope Cemetery in Bangor. Attendees, please meet at the Superintendent’s Lodge at the 1048 State Street entrance, to drive to the gravesite. Bonnie’s family invites all to share conversation and refreshments following the celebration at the Brookings-Smith Family Reception Center, 163 Center Street, Bangor.