Dean Roger Wood

Dean Roger Wood, 85, of Aiken, South Carolina, passed away on December 7, 2025 at Aiken Regional Medical Center after a brief but valiant battle with cancer. He was born on October 1, 1940, in O’Neill, Nebraska to the late Pern and Lillian Storjohann Wood.

Dean’s early childhood was shaped by perseverance and independence in rural Iowa. He and his brother Vern were raised primarily by their mother in rural western Iowa.

A strong student and gifted athlete, Dean earned honor roll distinctions and participated in football, basketball, baseball, and track. He graduated from Schleswig High School in Iowa in 1959.

In 1960, Dean enlisted in the United States Air Force, beginning a distinguished career in military intelligence. His service included assignments in Texas, Florida, and a remote tour at Wakkanai Air Station in northern Japan. He completed his active-duty service in 1964.

Shortly after leaving active duty, he was recruited to the National Security Agency, where he began a long and accomplished civilian career in signals intelligence. He retired after 34 years of government service.

Outside of work, Dean loved sports. Bowling, and playing softball, but his passion for golf brought him to South Carolina. He spent his retirement years playing many rounds of golf, especially in his Cedar Creek community.

Dean is survived by life partner, Lana Sadler, his brother Vern, his children, Roger and Dennis, and grandchildren Rebecca and Jessica, and extended family who will remember him as a man of quiet strength, resilience, and self-reliance.

No service is planned.

SHELLHOUSE - RIVERS FUNERAL HOME, 715 EAST PINE LOG RD., AIKEN, SC