Former Knoxville Police Chief Charles Wooldridge is being remembered for his devotion to public service, and for the kindness he strove to show throughout his career.
Wooldridge died on Wednesday at the age of 82, at the Comfort House in Pella. He served with the department for 32 years, starting in 1962 and eventually working his way up the ranks to chief.
Former Knoxville Mayor Harve Sprafka served with him in the department, and knew him throughout his career; he tells KNIA/KRLS News Wooldridge was well-liked throughout the community.
“A fine gentleman, very approachable; always wanting to do the best possible job for the community,” Sprafka says. “He was well-liked by the public as well as the staff there at the Knoxville Police Department.”
Current police chief Dan Losada says Chuck Wooldridge dedicated part of his life to make Knoxville a better place for everyone, and he thanks him for that effort.
For more from Sprafka about the life of former chief Wooldridge, tune in to today’s Let’s Talk Knoxville.