Donald Vincent Bolan

Don passed away on December 24, 2021, at home, in Carmichael, CA, with his family by his side. We were blessed to have a True Love, Dad, Papa, Hero, and Dear Friend in our lives. Don was a man of incredible integrity, character, and humor, and always “had your back.”

Don was born in Seattle, Washington to John and Pearl Bolan. He spent his childhood growing up in the Northwest in a very loving and devoted family. Immediately after high school, Don joined the Marine Corps, an experience that profoundly influenced and changed his life. After his first tour of duty in Guam, Don returned to Seattle to earn his BA degree at the University of Washington. There, he served as president of his fraternity, Alpha Sigma Phi, and was involved in numerous activities and sports. Don then completed Marine Officer Training, and served two more years of active duty in Korea, before returning to Seattle as Captain Bolan.

Don joined the Seattle Trust & Savings Bank, as a new manager trainee, but quickly learned that banking was not his calling. He then enrolled in the UW School of Law. However, prior to leaving the bank, he took one large “withdrawal” (coworker Bobbette), his future wife and love.

After law school, Don knew that a "lawyer" desk job was not for him and joined the FBI in 1957. As a Special Agent, he experienced a fascinating and rewarding career with many memorable cases, people, and events. Viewed as an investigative expert, Don was a mentor to new agents and served the FBI loyally for over 25 years.

After mandatory-age retirement from the Bureau, Don continued to work until the ripe "young" age of 80, as a private investigator doing background screening and security clearances. He derived great pleasure in traveling, meeting new people, and conducting interviews. His natural ability to connect with others and "get information" was uncanny and enviable.

Don had a very full and blessed life. He and Bobby were married for 64 loving, event-filled years. They had three wonderful children: Kevin, Megan (Rick), and Kelly, and later enjoyed grandchildren Brynne, Brady and Rylan and great-grandchildren, Shea and Remy. Don and Bobby got the travel bug and visited many amazing places throughout the world, particularly falling in love with beautiful Alaska.

Don was committed, loyal, and humble. He greatly loved his family, his extended family, his friends, his dogs, his hot cocoa, his 49’ers, his UW Huskies, and his country. He was a man of great integrity and was devoted to serving and helping others. Anyone could call “Bolan” and know that he would be there immediately, without hesitation.

Don will be greatly missed, but those remaining will cherish the many fond memories and his many great stories.

Forever in our hearts. Semper Fi