Dr. Richard S. “Dick” Wood

Dr. Richard S. “Dick” Wood, 83, of Libby, Montana, passed away at home peacefully, leaving behind a legacy rooted deeply in the family and the community he loved. 

Born and raised in Libby, he graduated from Libby High School and carried his small-town values with him throughout his life. As a young man, he was encouraged by his grandmother to follow his interest in being a dentist. 

He worked on the railroad, at the local lumber mill and his college summers for W.R. Grace, determined to earn his way through college. He attended Carroll College in Helena, where he proudly sang with the Carrollers and played football, forming friendships and memories that lasted a lifetime. 

After a brief stint at Gonzaga University, Dick returned to Carroll College to finish his Bachelor of Science degree. He then continued his education at Marquette University School of Dentistry in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. During his time there, he worked as bartender—often sharing stories of serving members of the local mob. 

After earning his dental degree, Dick served his country as a Navy dentist from 1969 to 1971. Following his military service, Dick returned home to Libby to build both a dental practice and a life centered on family and community. For decades, he cared for generations of patients, coming to know many of Libby’s smiles personally. His dedication extended far beyond his office walls. 

Dick was a devoted Catholic, attending and helping the church in many ways, an active member of the Libby Volunteer Fire Department, coached Little League, participated in the Chamber of Commerce, had a guest appearance in the local singing group the “Treasure Tones” and served on the local bank board for many years. 

He generously helped struggling members of the community in his own silent way. He believed in giving back to the town that has given him so much. 

Dick found his greatest joy in family. In 1989, he married his soulmate Janice Redman, blending their families and giving Steve and Terri two brothers, David and Jimmy. Dick and Janice put family first and their relationship was intertwined with love, kindness and respect. 

They enjoyed fishing, traveling, and gathering their loved ones together. Over the years, their family grew to include four cherished grandchildren—Kayla, Cassi, Denton and Abigail—who filled their home with laughter and youthful energy. In time, the family is further blessed with 10 great-grandchildren, each one a source of immense pride and joy. The boundary of family reached far beyond blood and marriage. Over the years, they built many meaningful relationships with other young people and families. 

He enjoyed looking out the picture window watching the animals pass by, the young family grow across the street and the care he received by wonderful souls touched him deeply. Dick will be remembered for his steady presence, warm humor and the countless lives he touched in Libby and beyond. His kindness and compassion will never be forgotten.

Dick is survived by his wife Janice Wood; his children Stephen Wood, Terri Fisher and stepsons Jimmy Redman and David Redman (Kristin); his grandchildren Cassi McKee (Travis), Kayla Redman, Denton Redman, Abigail Hicks (James); and 10 great-grandchildren. Brother Tom Wood (Lannie); a great number of cousins, nieces and nephews. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Topper Wood (Connie), sister Trudie Woods and nephew Greg Woods.

Services will be held at 1 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 17 at the Libby Christian Church with a fire truck procession to graveside and reception following back at the Libby Christian Church.

Arrangements are under the care of Schnackenberg and Riddle Funeral Home of Libby, Montana. Online condolences and memories may be shared by visiting www.schnackenbergfh.com.