Donald Franklin “Don” Bolles, age 86, of Shelby, passed away peacefully late Wednesday night, December 4, 2024 at Crystal Care Center of Ashland. His death follows a lengthy illness.
Don was born February 20, 1938 in Mansfield to the late Arthur E. and Beatrice (Koch) Bolles. A graduate of the Mansfield Senior High School Class of 1957, Don worked for General Motors in Ontario and Lordstown in upper management positions from where he retired following 32 years of service. Additionally, Don owned his own construction business, RE Bolles Builders, building houses in the Ontario area.
Don was an incredibly self-sufficient and relentless worker, often tackling many jobs himself. He was incredibly handy, building furniture which included cradles for the grandchildren, a grandfather clock, and various other woodworking projects. Don also fixed bikes as a hobby, which also provided support for his family for several years.
Together with his wife, Ruth, Don enjoyed traveling all over the United States, especially the State of Michigan, Yuma, AZ, and Florida. Many and most of their trips were in their motorhome. Their membership in the GMC Motorhome Club was a big part of their retirement years. Don loved all vehicles, however, and had enjoyed restoring cars throughout his life. Don remained a loyal fan of the Cleveland Browns even when most would have not. He always had a soft spot in his heart for his English Bulldogs and Black Labs.
Don is survived by his loving wife of 66 years, Ruth Elaine (Hannafus) Bolles, whom he wed on November 29, 1958. Also surviving are their children: Kevin Bolles of Lexington, Lisa (Scott) Kempf of Shelby, and Jane (John) Williams of Shelby; grandchildren: Paul (Rachel) Bolles, Mark (Bessy) Bolles, Kristen (Caleb) Maynard, Eric (Nicole) Bolles, Adam (Tara) Kempf, Ashley Goeden, John (Emily) Williams III, and Jeremy (Jessica) Williams; 9 great grandchildren; sisters-in-law: Pam Blankenhorn and Mary Lee Barr; and numerous other relatives and friends. In addition to his parents, Don was preceded in death by his brother David Bolles; daughter-in-law: Patricia Bolles; and sisters-in-law: Rita Yore and Carole Pittis.
Family and friends are welcome on Wednesday, December 11, 2024 from 1-3 pm at the Penwell Funeral Home, 168 West Main Street, Shelby, where funeral services will immediately follow at 3 pm. Rev. Dr. Russel Yoak, Pastor of First Lutheran Church in Shelby, will officiate the funeral. Memorial contributions may be made to the First Lutheran Church of Shelby or Crystal Care Center of Ashland.
Condolences may be made on Don’s obituary on the funeral home’s website (PenwellFuneralHome.com) or their Facebook page (Facebook.com/PenwellFuneralHome).
To view Don’s Tribute Video, click here: Don Bolles Tribute Video
Ruthie, I am so sorry for your loss. In reading Don’s obituary, he had a wonderful life and you and your family have been blessed to share many years and memories together. I am praying for your strength, comfort and peace knowing you have the hope God promises that you will be together again. Love, Nancy
R.I.P. Don.
To Ruth and children, my deepest sympathies for your loss.
He was a nice man with so much talent, not afraid to tackle any job.
I have wonderful memories of time spent with he and Ruthie.
We are sorry for the family’s loss and are sending love and prayers for healing.
So sorry to hear of Don’s passing, he was a great man. May he be at peace. Sending lots of hugs and love to y’all.
Kevin, Paul, Mark, Kristen, and Eric; My sympathy to you and your families. Linda and I keep you in prayer through this time. Please know how much we value your friendships. Blessings, J. Todd & Linda Snyder