Steven "Steve" Elliott Wooldridge

Steven "Steve" Elliott Wooldridge passed away on Wednesday, May 14, 2025, at the age of 69. Born on May 4, 1956, in Sioux City, IA, he was the son of Elliott and Marilyn Wooldridge. Steve's early life was marked by a tragic turn when he suffered a brain injury accident when he was 19, profoundly altering the course of his life. A Celebration of Life will take place on Saturday, June 7th from 2-5 PM at the Sioux City Country Club located at 4001 Jackson St.

Despite the challenges he faced, Steve embodied resilience and strength. His mother became his staunchest advocate during this time, and she co-founded Opportunities Unlimited in Sioux City. This organization played a significant role in Steve's life, providing him with support and community as he resided there for nearly 30 years. Following his time with Opportunities Unlimited, Steve resided at Accura Health Care in Sioux City. Stevens’ family would like to give a special thank you to Kimberly Nelson and staff at Accura for their unwavering care and support that was shown to their brother.

Steve graduated from North High School in 1974 and pursued further education, attending the University of Northern Colorado before moving on to Orange Coast College in California. Throughout his life, he was known for his loving, caring, and generous spirit. Steve was a smart individual who faced life's adversities with an admirable fighting spirit.

His hobbies included listening to music, watching television, and enjoying nature. Most of all Steven harbored a deep affection for lacustrine environments, finding joy and excitement in all its activities. This fostered many cherished memories with his family, most of which took place at Lake Okoboji or his favorite vacation spot, Lake Le Homme Dieu in Minnesota. One memory that remains special to his brothers is when their father took them on a fly in fishing trip to Canada when Steve was 16. They ended up going way over their allotted number of Pike per regulations. It was all fun and games until the Game Wardens showed up. The guides rapidly urged everyone to start concealing the fish, specifically by burying them in the sand on the beach! They got to keep the fish.

Steve is survived by his two brothers, Jeff (Melissa) Wooldridge of Sioux City, IA, and Neal (Patti Gill) Wooldridge of Dakota Dunes, SD. He is also survived by his three step-brothers; Steve Hirsch of Iowa City, IA, Tom (Linda) Hirsch of Lincoln, NE, and Chuck (Sue) Hirsch of Ozark, MO, two step-sisters; Cindy Peters and Teri Hartnett. In addition, he leaves behind a legacy through his brothers' children; Jeffrey (Asia Keane) Wooldridge, Jared (Teresa) Wiig and their children; Max, Leo, and Mia, Nealy (Sean Boies) Wooldridge, and all of his cousins in Minnesota.

Steve is preceded by his parents, Elliott and Marilyn Wooldridge, his step-father, H.N. “Nort” Hirsch, and step-mother; Nancy Wooldridge.

Meyer Brothers Colonial Chapel is assisting with arrangements.