Donald Eugene Woolsey was born Oct. 8,1930, in Surprise, to Fred and Gladys (Parke) Woolsey and passed away Sept. 25, 2023, in David City, at the age of 92 years, 11 months and 7 days.
Don grew up in Surprise and attended school in Ulysses, graduating with the Class of 1947. Don and Norma met while Norma was working at the movie theater in David City and they became high school sweethearts. Don and Norma were engaged and then Don was drafted into the United States Army in 1951, during the Korean War. Don got a weekend pass from basic training and Don and Norma were united in marriage on Feb. 3, 1952, in David City. To this union, five children were born, Jim, John, Linda, Janet, and Peggy. After being honorably discharged from the Army in 1953, they farmed from 1953 until 1968 in Stromsburg, Surprise, Madison, Norfolk and Ulysses. After their farm sale, they moved to Staplehurst for several years and he began working for Goodyear, before moving to Seward. He worked the night shift at Goodyear and worked part time at Briggs Cattle Co, checking cattle on horseback. Don then retired from Goodyear after 24 years in 1993. He worked at the Texaco station and also drove the bus for Heartland Park for two years.
Don was a hard worker and a very supportive husband, father, grandpa and friend to many people. He took great pride in his children and grandchildren and attended many activities to cheer them on. He was always willing to help others in need and had a kind and caring heart. Don loved the outdoors, working in his yard and gardening alongside Norma. He enjoyed taking his children and grandchildren hunting and fishing.
Don was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Norma (Nichols) Woolsey; and brothers, Francis Woolsey and Robert Woolsey.
Survivors cherishing his memory include his children and spouses, Jim (Beth) Woolsey of Beaver Crossing, John (Mari) Woolsey of Gibbon, Linda (Dr. Mark) Carlson of David City, Janet Irick of Redmond, Oregon, and Peggy Williams of Lincoln; 13 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren, with one arriving in April, and a host of friends.
Visitation will be Friday, Oct. 20, from 1 – 7 p.m. At Zabka-Perdue Funeral Home in Seward with family receiving friends from 4 – 6 p.m. A memorial service will be Saturday, Oct. 21, at 11 a.m. at the Seward United Methodist Church. There will be a private family inurnment and graveside service.
Memorial contributions are suggested to the Seward United Methodist Church or to Seward Meals on Wheels program. Arrangements by Zabka-Perdue Funeral Home.
