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Photos: Westlake hardware store owner dispenses tools for life

Bertha Wooldridge calls L.A. City Councilman Gilbert Cedillo's office to discuss a problem at nearby Hope and Peace Park. Wooldridge works with local authorities, residents and the LAPD to address violence and crime.

Bertha Wooldridge calls L.A. City Councilman Gilbert Cedillo’s office to discuss a problem at nearby Hope and Peace Park. Wooldridge works with local authorities, residents and the LAPD to address violence and crime.  (Christina House / For The Times)

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Bertha Wooldridge is a facilitator and peace agent in a neighborhood west of downtown where gangs are active and residents have few resources.

Hardware heroine

Customer Charles Hubbard, left, talks about parts with Bob Wooldridge, center, and his wife Bertha, owners of Westlake Plumbing and Hardware.  (Christina House / For The Times)

Hardware heroine

Bob and Bertha Wooldridge were instrumental in founding a neighborhood watch group called Westlake Protectors.  (Christina House / For The Times)

Hardware heroine

Bertha Wooldridge looks over her gallery of photos taken at community events held at Westlake Plumbing and Hardware.  (Christina House / For The Times)

Hardware heroine

Bertha Wooldridge walks back to the store that she and her husband opened on Valentine’s Day 1981.  (Christina House / For The Times)

Hardware heroine

Cary Alvarado plays at Hope and Peace Park. The site was once home to a drug-and-crime infested halfway house. Bertha Wooldridge and her husband sought to have the building torn down. Today, the community uses the park for gatherings and sports.  (Christina House / For The Times)

Hardware heroine

Bob and Bertha Wooldridge at their store. Some tease her and call her the honorary mayor of Westlake.   (Christina House / For The Times)

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