Beloved Photographer, Promoter, Dad, Veteran, Michael "Wood" Wood Passes Away Wednesday

Galesburg, MI - According to a post on social media Wednesday morning, beloved track icon, Micheal "Woody" Wood passed away Wednesday after a month-long battle with health-related issues.

Longtime area photographer, US Military Veteran, and partner in the National Compact Touring Series, Michael "Woody" Wood has been battling health issues since mid-January that resulted in an extended hospital stay. Wood was hospitalized and is being treated for conditions like A-fibulation, pancreatitis, gallbladder surgery, and other complications. His stay at Bronson Methodist Hospital in Kalamazoo has been since mid-January.

In February a GoFundMe was launched for Wood by the community, who rallied around he and his family.

The post, made by fellow racer and friend, Buddy Head:

"We are deeply saddened to share that Michael “Woody” Wood has passed away today.

Woody was a true staple in the racing community, known for his work as a photographer at Galesburg Speedway and for the many years he spent at Corrigan Oil Speedway and Kalamazoo Speedway. He dedicated 13 years as co-promoter of the National Compact Touring Series and spent several years working with Rev X Oil, where he built lifelong friendships with the Rev X family.

In recent years, Woody poured his passion into his business, Rabid Graphics, supporting racers and tracks with shirts and design work. He was involved in projects with the Freedom Factory, Channel 199, and many local speedways—always willing to help anyone in the racing community.

Woody was the kind of person who would give you the shirt off his back. Above all, he was a devoted father to his daughter Faith, stepping away from Rev X to focus on caring for her.

He was also a proud veteran of the United States Navy and cared deeply for his fellow veterans.

We ask that you please respect the family’s privacy during this difficult time and keep Woody’s family and friends in your thoughts and prayers."