Oregon senator, retired tech exec Aaron Woods dies at 75
Woods, who joined the Oregon Senate in January 2023 after a long career in technology including as a senior executive at Xerox, was remembered for his compassionate approach and dedication to public service.
This story is available courtesy of Portland Business Journal media partner KGW-TV.
Oregon Sen. Aaron Woods, a Democrat representing Wilsonville, Charbonneau and King City, died Saturday surrounded by his family, according to statements from the Oregon Senate Republican Caucus and Senate Majority Office.
Woods, who joined the Oregon Senate in January 2023 after a long career in technology including as a senior executive at Xerox, was remembered for his compassionate approach and dedication to public service.
"Above all, Aaron Woods was thoughtful," said Senate Republican Leader Daniel Bonham (R-The Dalles) in a statement released by the Oregon Senate Republican Caucus. "In a building that too often highlights division, he stood out as someone who led with compassion, listened with humility, and treated everyone with respect."
A U.S. Army veteran who grew up on Chicago's South Side, Woods moved to Oregon in 1996 when recruited by Tektronix, according to the Senate Majority Office. He co-chaired the Joint Committee on Information Management and Technology and the Joint Ways and Means Subcommittee on Transportation and Economic Development.
"Senator Woods was a respected colleague and a dedicated public servant. In the Senate we relied on his decades of private sector experience to inform our economic development policymaking, and we appreciated his thoughtful approach to complex issues," said Senate Majority Leader Kayse Jama (D-Portland, Boring & Damascus) in a statement from the Senate Majority Office.
Senate President Rob Wagner (D-Lake Oswego) called Woods "a kind and trusted friend" in the same release.
"Aaron had a deep heart for public service. He loved being in the Senate and loved working on behalf of the people in his community. He brought a unique and important perspective to our work," Wagner said.
The Oregon House Republican Caucus stated that Woods was dedicated to serving the people of Oregon in a statement.
'Senator Woods was dedicated to serving the people of Oregon. He will be remembered for his kindness, his willingness to work across the aisle, and his desire to do what is best for our state. He will be missed.'
Gov. Tina Kotek also recognized Woods' passing in comments shared by the Senate Majority Office.
"Aaron often said that growing up on the south side of Chicago, he never expected to be an elected official. But to me, he was an exact fit. His life was defined by care and service to his country, his community, and family," Kotek said.
Woods is survived by five adult children. He was predeceased by his wife Shirley, according to the Senate Majority Office.
The Oregon Secretary of State has been informed of the Senate seat vacancy as part of the process for appointing the next senator for Senate District 13.
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