David Wood, the animal curator for the Elmwood Park Zoo, died last week at the age of 61 due to complications from dermatomyositis, the zoo announced on Monday.
If you've attended an Eagles home game or other fan events over the past three years, you might have seen Noah, the Elmwood Park Zoo's ambassador bald eagle. Wood was right there with Noah, educating fans about the iconic history of America's national bird and animal.
"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.
"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."
Wood's family has respectfully requested that any memorial donations be made to the Elmwood Park Zoo: Development Department, 1661 Harding Blvd., Norristown, Pennsylvania 19401.
