Senate Resolution No. 1784

BY: Senator RITCHIE

MOURNING the death of Storm D. Wood, distinguished
citizen and devoted member of his community

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to convey its
grateful appreciation and heartfelt regret in recognition of the loss of
a courageous and inspiring individual, who touched the lives of many;
and

WHEREAS, It is with profound sadness that this Legislative Body
records the passing of Storm D. Wood, who died on Wednesday, May 22,
2019, at the age of 29; and

WHEREAS, Storm D. Wood was born on April 17, 1990, to Douglas W. and
Mary Jo Coniglio Wood, and was a 2008 graduate of Watertown High School;
and

WHEREAS, Although Storm D. Wood fought a longtime battle with
muscular dystrophy, he did not allow it to get him down, and was a voice
for others facing the illness, as well as all children in similar
medical situations; and

WHEREAS, A "graduate" of the Children's Miracle Network (CMN)
program, Storm D. Wood was a strong supporter of the organization, and
would call the CMN Radiothon each year to encourage people to support
CMN, which helped him when he was younger; and

WHEREAS, In 2010, a local radio personality and close friend of
Storm D. Wood, Johnny Spezzano spearheaded an effort to make the Wood
home wheelchair accessible; and

WHEREAS, As a result, local businesses and community members came
out in droves to complete renovations and welcome Storm D. Wood home;
and

WHEREAS, This is just one example in which Storm D. Wood inspired
and brought his fellow community members together; and

WHEREAS, Storm D. Wood was known extensively on Facebook, where he
would share inspiration with thousands of friends and followers, making
a difference through his positive messages of hope despite life's
challenges; and

WHEREAS, In the days following his passing, countless people turned
to Facebook to share stories about the impact Storm D. Wood, with his
kind demeanor and inspiring outlook, had on their lives; and

WHEREAS, Predeceased by his father, Douglas W. Wood, Storm D. Wood
is survived by his mother, Mary Jo Coniglio Wood, and one brother,
Sterling E. Wood, as well as numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and
friends; and

WHEREAS, Storm D. Wood leaves behind a legacy of hope, determination
and positivity that will long endure the passage of time and will remain

as a comforting memory to all he served and befriended; he will be
deeply missed and truly merits the tribute of this Legislative Body;
now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
mourn the death of Storm D. Wood, and to express its deepest condolences
to his family; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the family of Storm D. Wood.