Animal Curator At Norristown's Elmwood Park Zoo Dies At 61

NORRISTOWN, PA -- David Wood, the animal curator at Elmwood Park Zoo who had a storied zoological career, has died at age 61.

Wood died on March 22 at the University of Pennsylvania Hospital in Philadelphia due to complications from dermatomyositis, zoo officials said.

Wood began his career as a keeper at the Philadelphia Zoo in 1973. In 1993, he became the first zookeeper in the United States to bring white lions from Timbavati to the continent, according to Elmwood.

When the white lions were able to successfully breed, Wood achieved celebrity status, appearing on Good Morning America, Captain Noah's TV Show, and the David Letterman Show.

Wood worked for the Palm Beach Zoo in Florida and the Mill Mountain Zoo in Virginia before arriving at Elmwood in 2005, the zoo said.

“I can’t overstate how important Dave Wood’s work was, certainly to our zoo, as well as the community worldwide,” said Al Zone, Elmwood Park Zoo’s Executive Director and CEO. “He had an incredible amount of knowledge, and I learned so much from him. He was also a great advocate for wildlife and the environment.”

Wood was instrumental in the recent success of Elmwood, bringing animals from all over the globe to Norristown. He oversaw the arrival of giraffes, and was "heavily involved" in the recent birth of jaguar cubs and the forthcoming Trail of the Jaguar exhibit, Elmwood said.

The zoo said that Wood brought their education ambassador bald eagle “Noah” to all of the Philadelphia Eagles home games for the past three years.

“Dave’s passing is a tremendous loss and we will miss him terribly. But I know he was very excited for the zoo and the direction it was going in. In truth, Dave Wood’s passion and commitment to the zoo has ensured we will continue to grow and remain strong for many years to come," Zone added.

Wood is survived by his loving wife Laurie Smith Wood, brother Glenn Wood (Michele Venuti-Wood), sister-in-law Alesia Vasta (Ben), brother-in-law Bruce (Margie), seven nieces and nephews, many, many cousins, his long-time friend Gino, and his wonderful zoo friends from all over the world. The family is planning a celebration of David's life to be held at a later date. Donations may be made in David's name to Elmwood Park Zoo: Development Department, 1661 Harding Blvd., Norristown PA 19401.

Image and obituary details courtesy Elmwood Park Zoo