James Ray Bolick

James "Jim" Ray Bolick was born on January 26, 1941, in Tonkawa, Oklahoma, to James and Dortha Bolick. He was raised in Kansas, where he developed a lifelong love of sports, excelling in high school football and track. Though offered a football scholarship, Jim chose to pursue his education at The University of Kansas, where he earned both his undergraduate degree and a Master of Business Administration. While at KU, he competed on the track team and served as Rush Chairman for his fraternity, Delta Upsilon.

Following graduation, Jim began his professional career as a stockbroker with Merrill Lynch in New York. Eventually, he transferred to Houston, Texas, seeking warmer weather and new opportunities. It was in Houston where he met the love of his life, Frances. The two married on October 20, 1978, and soon after, Jim began a long and successful sales career with Southwestern Bell Yellow Pages. He remained with the company for 35 years, retiring in 2008.

Jim was a devoted husband, a proud father, and a loving grandfather. He was known for his calm demeanor, contagious smile, and unwavering dedication to his family. He was an avid runner—often seen jogging with his golden retriever—and a loyal Kansas Jayhawks basketball fan.

Jim is survived by his cherished wife of 46 years, Frances Bolick; his daughter Kasha Korbut and her husband Darin, and their sons Maverick (7) and Nash (2); and his daughter Kristen Conner and her husband Dave, and their children Levi (12), Scarlett (10), and Waylon (6). He is also survived by many beloved nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents, James and Dortha Bolick; his brother, Fred Bolick; his brother-in-laws, Jimmy Fisher and Paul Fisher; his sister-in-laws, Gayle Fisher and Betty Reese; and his nephew, Nolan Fisher.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, August 9th from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at The Settegast-Kopf Company at Sugar Creek.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to Breakthrough T1D in honor of Jim, who lived his best life while managing Type 1 Diabetes for over 50 years.

Jim will be dearly missed and fondly remembered for the strength, love, and joy he brought to all who knew him.