Bruce Neal Woolsey

Bruce Neal Woolsey, 78, passed away peacefully at home in Chandler, AZ on March 6, 2024 surrounded by his loving family. 

Bruce was born on September 23, 1945, in Waterloo, IA. He graduated from high school in 1963 where he became the first state champion wrestler from Orange High School. Following school, Bruce served in the Army from 1965-1967 stationed in Fort Eustis, Hampton, Virginia. In 1966, Bruce married his high school sweetheart, Jonie Rousselow. They were married for almost 58 years and raised 3 children. 

Bruce’s occupations were numerous as he was always looking to be challenged in new ventures.  One of his favorite jobs was in the engineering department at CMC. Here he traveled and mounted drums for cement mixers.  In 2005, Bruce retired from the ASU Physical Plant as a carpenter. 

As a family man, Bruce was creative and fun-loving. He was always coming up with new ways to have quality family time. He did things like take the family boating, play cards or come up with contests such as balsa airplane competitions or boomer rang throwing games. 

In retirement years, Bruce was often found in his workshop making toys for his grandkids or fixing up a car or planning his next handyman job.

Bruce loved his wife Jonie and family.  His playful pranks, hardworking qualities and caring nature will be greatly missed. 

Bruce is proceeded in death by his Parents Ned and Elna Woolsey, and sister Sheila Dentler. He is survived by two sisters, Dita Borrom, Pam McKenna (Bob), brother Jim Woolsey (Dianne), 3 children, Tonja Ihlenfeldt (Tim), Deanne Gissel (Tim), Jeremiah Woolsey (Amy), 12 grandchildren, Taylor Cooper (Steven), Megan Okita (Jarrett), Colter Gissel (Ryann), Jackson Gissel (Marina), Abby Ihlenfeldt, Chloe Ihlenfeldt, Sophia Ihlenfeldt, Brandi Woolsey, Seth Ihlenfeldt, Joseph Ihlenfeldt, Marin Woolsey, Jase Woolsey, 4 great grandchildren, Jason Cooper, Ellie Cooper, Charlie Cooper and Hanna Cooper. 

Two Funeral Services will be held to honor Bruce, one in Arizona and the other in Iowa.  

A Funeral Service will be held Saturday, March 16, 2024 at 10:00am at First United Methodist Church of Gilbert, 331 S. Cooper Road, Gilbert, AZ 85233.