James Bolar's Obituary
JAMES M. BOLAR July 12, 1917 to February 14, 2008 Resident of Castro Valley Passed away on February 14th at his home of fifty years in Castro Valley, surrounded by loving family, at the age of 90. Jim was born in Mound City, Illinois, served in the U.S. Navy during WWII and the Korean Conflict and was a Pearl Harbor survivor. He was very proud to have served his country. Jim was a great storyteller and shared countless tales of his younger days and military adventures. The larger his audience, the more stories he would share. He was an avid sports fan and a fixture at Castro Valley High School and Chabot College sporting events as well as traveling across the country with his grandson’s fast pitch softball team. His door was always open and a cold beverage readily available to anyone stopping by for a visit. Preceded in death by his loving wife of 63 years, Shirley, Jim is survived by his five children; Ruth Pierce, Vickie Chapman, James (Jeanne), Martin (Marilyn) and Bill (Shelle), 10 grandchildren; Rod and Debbie Pierce, Nikole Chapman, Michael (Kim), Jeff, (Lisa), Alisha, Chelsea, Michele, Mindy, and Matthew (Candi), and 9 great-grandchildren; Morgan, Blake, Zachary, Bradley, Corey, Sierra, Kaleigh, Joseph and James. Besides his stories, Jim, (Dad and Pop to many) will be long remembered for his quirky sayings, quick wit, the nicknames he gave to all family and friends and his Hollywood smile. He appreciated his many friends and bragged often about his family, calling them a “close knit clan.” Everyone who knew him, including his loyal and constant companion, Barry the cat, will miss him greatly. A celebration of his life will be held on Saturday, February 23rd at 1:30 p.m. at the Chapel of the Chimes, 32992 Mission Blvd., Hayward.
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