V. David “Blackie” Woolsey, 87, of East Galesburg, died at 6:45 p.m. Tuesday, May 30, 2017, in the Knox County Nursing Home in Knoxville.
He was born July 12, 1929, at home in Hermon, the son of Kenneth and Mildred (Way) Woolsey. He was one of seven children. His siblings were Robert, Donald, Richard, Sam, Roland, and Mary Lou.
He is survived by his companion of 29 years, Wilma Plasters; three sons, Kenneth (and Alane) Woolsey of Lewiston, Idaho, Daniel (and Susan) Woolsey of Chetek, Wisconsin, and Richard Woolsey of Galesburg; a daughter, Rhonda (and Clint) Spangler of Galesburg; 10 grandchildren; and several great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and a son, Henry.
Blackie worked at Butler Manufacturing Company for 38 years, retiring in 1989. After retirement, he tended bar at several establishments.
He graduated from London Mills High School in 1947. He served in the United States Army from 1948 to 1951. He was a member of Harry Philblad American Legion Post 749 in Knoxville. Blackie was a devoted fan of the Chicago Cubs and Bears.
Visitation will be 5 to 7 p.m. Friday, June 2, 2017 at Hinchliff-Pearson-West Galesburg Chapel. Cremation will be accorded following the visitation. Graveside service will be 1 p.m. Saturday in East Linwood Cemetery. A celebration of Blackie’s life will continue at Harley’s Pub. Memorial contributions may be made to OSF Hospice. Online condolences may be made at www.h-p-w.com.
