Gregory G. Woodley

Gregory Gene Woodley, 60, passed away Sunday, February 9, 2025 at the VA Hospital, where he consistently received steadfast, loving care. A celebration of life will be held 11 a.m. Wednesday, February 19, 2025 at McLaren’s Resthaven Chapel in West Des Moines with visitation from 10 a.m. until the time of the service at McLaren’s. Burial will follow at Iowa Veterans Cemetery.

Greg was born May 8, 1964 in Jefferson, IA to Gary and Madonna (Hasstedt) Woodley. He graduated from East Green High School in 1983 and then joined the United States Marine Corps and served on active duty for 12 years, in Desert Shield and Desert Storm. Sgt Woody, as known by those he served with, was honorably discharged from duty in 1995. Greg shared many fond memories of his time in the Marines. He was very proud and honored to have served his country. Greg attended Iowa State University and DMACC, where he received degrees in robotics engineering. He was a dedicated worker, employed by UPS for 19 years and most recently by Tone Spices. Greg was the father of six children, Tyler, Tiffany, Garrett, Caleb, Rick, and Kaitlyn (Freitas) Woodley. Whenever he was spending time with his children and grandchildren was Greg’s favorite time. Loving his precious grandchildren Joselyn, Jameson, Jemma, and Jianna. The most precious job Greg ever had was his night shift duty at the hospital with his grandson. He held his namesake, Jameson Gregory, safely in his arms night after night. He was not only a Papa but a Hero. Greg was an avid fisherman and hunter. His passion for fishing grew after many fishing trips with his grandpa Hasstedt, who he always looked up to. He enjoyed night fishing with his sons and taking the boat out on the lake with family and friends. Every year, he grew a large garden where he taught his kids how to break a sweat and build character. Greg was a huge Green Bay Packers fan. His passion for the Packers began when he was 5 years old, watching a game with his dad. He saw their helmets and knew his name also started with the letter G, and it was game on from that moment. He attended seven pro games, five at Lambeau Field. Lots of fun memories were made through the years. One year, taking a camper filled with all six kids on a trip to Wisconsin.

In 2021, Greg met his fiancé, Shelly Owens. Shelly and Greg shared four wonderful years together. She was his rock and was by his side through his battle with cancer. He often expressed how grateful he was to have her.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Marla; brother, Fred; grandparents, Frank and Vivian (McDowell) Woodley and John and Clarice (Caldwell) Hasstedt; grandson, Jameson; and many other loved ones.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the Military Veterans Project at https://www.militaryveteranproject.org/donation.html.