Robert “Bob” Woolever

Robert “Bob” Woolever, devoted son, husband, father, papa, great-papa and beloved friend passed away on November 22, 2023 in Santa Barbara, California with his family by his side. Bob was born in Nebraska on Sept 18, 1936. At 4 yrs. old, he moved with his family to Santa Barbara, where he would build an incredible family and life.

Bob was the most kind, genuine, loving, funny and caring being. Bobs dreams in life revolved around taking care of his family, being a positive person in peoples lives and sharing a big pearly white smile with all who were lucky enough to cross paths with him. He devoted his life to his wife, children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Bob joined the U.S. Marine corps straight out of high school. While serving, he and his service buddies spent time in San Francisco, where he met his wife and soulmate Carolyn. Once Bob had completed his time with the USMC, he and Carolyn were married in 1957 and made their permanent home in Santa Barbara. There they raised their three children Kim, Teri and Rob. They were married for 66 years.

If Bob had wanted anything in life, it was to be a dad. And boy, was he the best dad. While his kids were growing up, there were many family camping trips, driving across the country to visit family friends in Arkansas and even taking his kids and grandchildren to Hawaii. He always made every trip the best memory ever that we will continue to hold close to our hearts. He also loved Coaching Little League Baseball for his son, and softball for his girls. He made a positive impact on the lives of many kids.

In 1960, Bob and his father started their own business as Woolever Tire Service, now known as Bob Woolever’s Tire Shop, which is still open and being run by his son, Rob. During Bob’s time at the Tire Shop, he created lasting relationship’s with the incredible community of Santa Barbara. He had life-long returning customers because of his ability to connect so sincerely with people.

When Bob’s kids started their own families, you could always find him in the stands cheering on his grandchildren. He was the ultimate family man and the best papa. He enjoyed watching his grandchildren play many sports, attending ballet recitals, spoiling them with See’s candies, hosting bbq’s, and taking them on the most incredible trip to Hawaii. To his grandchildren, he was the best papa they could have ever asked for. Bob was also lucky enough to share experiences with his three great-grandchildren who all love and will miss their great-papa dearly.

Bob will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched. His genuine, kind and nurturing character will be cherished in the memories of those he held most dear to his heart. It’s not a goodbye, just a see you later. We love you.

Bob is survived by his wife, Carolyn and their three children: Kim Haleck, Teri Woolever-Roots and Rob Woolever; daughter-in-law Jan Woolever; sons-in-law Dennis Roots and Scott Haleck; grandchildren Kori Haleck, and Dustin, Tyler and Courtney Roots; great-grandchildren Ava, Ellie, and Max Roots; and nieces and nephews Pam Quigley, Brett Coughran and Jeff Woolever. He was preceded in death by his parents, Dora and Robert Woolever; brother Roger Woolever; sister-in-law Shirley Coughran; and niece Mariann Steinmann.

A celebration of life will be planned in the near future. If you feel called to make a donation in honor of Bob, contributions can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association or a charity dear to your heart.