Donald LeRoy Bolin

Don was born May 31, 1935 in Ellsworth, Wisconsin the last of nine children born to Jesse C. Bolin and Carol (Bartlett) Bolin. His mother always introduced him as her baby "Donnie." The family moved to Yakima in 1938.

Don was united in marriage to Rita Jean Hille, December 1, 1953 in Stevenson, Wash. Since they were portraying the parts of Mary and Joseph in the church Christmas pageant it seemed the perfect time for an elopement.

To that union were born three sons, Steve in 1955, Greg in 1958, and Kevin in 1961. Don and Rita were blessed with over 58 years together as husband and wife.

Don was one of the founding members of the West Valley Volunteer Fire Department when it was formed.

He was Honorably Discharged from the Washington State National Guard after six years of service, 1953-1959.

Don was employed by Yakima Manufacturing Corp., later Jeld-Wen for 41 years as maintenance and head saw filer, retiring in 2000. He owned and operated Don’s Saw Service at his residence for many years. He tried his hand at ostrich raising for a while.

Don took great pride in supporting his sons and grandchildren in their school and sporting activities and even home projects. Spending time on the water with family and friends, teaching many to water ski are fond memories. In later years spending a week on a houseboat on Lake Roosevelt with family for several summers was a real adventure.

Don was an active member of the Ahtanum Valley Assembly of God Church for over 40 years, recently attending Stone Church. Sunday evening home fellowship group was a source of spiritual strength and inspiration, along with the delicious food prepared by the ladies. Country Gospel music was his favorite.

After retirement Don joined the Central Washington Antique Farm Equipment Club and helped on the antique sawmill and other projects.

A special Thank You to Harold and LeRoy, two of his many friends who were there for constant support during his illness in recent years.

Don was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Roland, George, Harold, Max, and Erling, sisters Doris, Thelma and Virgie.

Survivors include his wife Rita; children, Steve (Teena) Bolin, Greg (Tina) Bolin, Kevin (Linda) Bolin all of Yakima; grandchildren, Joe (Della) Bolin, Jon (Bekah) Bolin, Anissa (Dee) Gargus, James Lott all of Yakima, Jessica Bolin of Vancouver, WA, Jason Bolin (fiancé Becca) of Hood River, Jacob Bolin (fiancé Lacey) of Spokane, WA; great grandchildren, Hannah, Henry, Cortez, James, Ethan, and Sophia; sister-in-law, Luella Bolin of Warden and brother-in-law, Ivan (Jan) Hille of Yakima.

During his 6-month residency at Apple Creek, the visits from family and friends, prayer and scripture reading by Pastor Larry Malcom, and Don Smith and others were a comfort. To the staff and care givers at Apple Creek - God Bless You! We all appreciate your care and concern and patience during this difficult time.

Visitation will be 4:00 - 8:00 p.m. Wednesday, April 18, 2012 at Keith & Keith Ninth Avenue Chapel. A Funeral Service will be 1:00 p.m. Thursday April 19th also at the chapel with burial with Military Honors at West Hills Memorial Park. Donations in Don’s name may be made to a charity of your choice. To share a memory of Don visit keithandkeith.com.