Casey John Woods

Casey John Woods, age 35, of Rockford, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, February 21, leaving behind a family and circle of friends who loved him deeply. He was a beloved son, brother, uncle and friend who will be lovingly remembered by his parents, John and Sheila Woods; his sisters and their families, Shannon and Jeff Elyea (Cate, Billy, Hank and Phoebe), Erin Woods and Joshua Atkinson (Forrest and Maeve); aunts and uncles, Kevin and Karla Casey, Frank Casey, Patrick and Wanli Casey, Sean and Ann Casey, Bridget Casey, Maureen and Frank Graham, Brian and Susan Casey, and many cousins.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Phillip and Theresa Woods, John and Mary Lou Casey, and his aunt, Jane Casey.

Soon after Casey was born, his family moved to West Lafayette, Indiana, where he developed a lifelong love for Purdue University athletics. Casey loved gathering with family and friends, always enjoying the chance to catch up and reconnect. He enjoyed cooking, skateboarding, and music, never passing up a chance to get on the dance floor. As a gentle soul, he held a special place in his heart for animals and the many friends he made throughout his life. The family will always cherish memories of Purdue football games, camping up north, and Florida vacations.

Though he faced challenges in life, Casey remained resilient and continued to believe in a brighter future. He had big goals and worked hard toward the future he envisioned. We are devastated that we will not be able to watch Casey fulfill the dreams he held so close. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by those who knew and loved him.

Funeral services will be held at 11 am, Saturday, February 28, 2026 at Matthysse Kuiper DeGraaf (MKD) Funeral Chapel, 1601 Post Drive NE, Belmont, with Rev. Phil Shangraw officiating. Relatives and friends are welcome to meet the family on Friday from 4 to 7 pm at MKD Funeral home and on Saturday at 10 am, one hour prior to the service. Those who wish may make contributions in Casey’s memory to guidinglightworks.org.