Mrs. Debbie Shana Wood

Debbie Shana Wood, 68, passed away peacefully in her home in Chateaugay, NY on February 15, 2021. Debbie had a tough battle with Alzheimer’s but took it in stride. Her “it is what it is” attitude helped guide her through all stages of life in a graceful and carefree manner. Debbie was born on September 25, 1952 in Manhattan, NY to parents Leon and Ruth Orlick. She spent her youthful years with friends in Central Park, going to concerts, helping her parents run Orlick’s Cabins in Hoags Corners NY, and hitchhiking cross-country. Debbie moved to Upstate NY in her 20’s and was fortunate to build a great life and meet wonderful friends whom she loved very much. She was a free spirit who loved music, dancing, cooking, gardening, walking, reading, and being around animals. Easygoing in nature, Debbie was kind and loved life. The simplest of things made her happy. She had a passion for being around children and enjoyed her work with Head Start, teaching nutrition, and Evenstart where she was able to be an advocate for children. She was even a 4-H leader for many years while her children were young. She loved life and living in the North Country, often referring to it as a winter wonderland. Debbie’s children were her pride. “Best Mom in the world” is a phrase her kids swear by. Sorry everyone, the “best” Mom is taken. She and her husband, Floyd Wood, were deeply in love and were beautiful to be around together. Their sweet relationship was a model for everyone to follow. Her friendly, gentle spirit will live on in the hearts and minds of all of those who were fortunate enough to be part of her life. Debbie is survived by husband loving Floyd Wood; children Harold Coonradt, Christina Knickerbocker, Floyd Wood II, Joshua Wood, Isaac Bigness, and Melissa Morgan; and by siblings Lester Orlick , and Sandy Orlick. She also has many grandchildren, nieces and nephews who she loved very much. She is pre-deceased by parents Ruth and Leon Orlick; and by siblings Steve Orlick, and Adrienne Orlick. As an alternative to funeral services, a Celebration of Life is planned for summer 2021. Please contact an immediate family member for more details. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Families R Us in Malone, NY, a family resource center where Debbie’s love for children, reading, and helping can live on. Special thank you to Hospice of the North Country who assisted Debbie and family during the time of her passing and to the caring aides from MILC who helped make it possible for Debbie to stay in her home. “We cannot help everyone, but everyone can help someone.” John Lennon

Mrs. Debbie Shana Wood

September 25, 1952 - February 15, 2021