Gary Robert Bolton

Gary’s greatest passion was his family, and the times spent together at the cabin he built. He lived life to the fullest, working on his cabin, boating, watching and playing sports, listening to music, discussing politics and business, and caring for his beloved pets.

His love for his wife was at his core. They were best friends who married 43 years ago at the Mercer Island Presbyterian Church, and raised their three children on Mercer Island in the house his parents built. Gary grew up on Beacon Hill and Mercer Island, graduating from Mercer Island High School class of 1960. He lettered in Baseball and Football and marched in the band. Gary attended Eastern Washington University and earned a BA in Business, going on to a successful sales career in marine coatings. Gary taught his children through example, instilling strong work ethics, values, his passion for sports, and to never sweat the small stuff. Gary was active with his family, coaching sports, being their biggest fan, taking them on ski trips throughout the West and scuba diving around the world. He was a lifetime season ticket holder for the Seattle Mariners and traveled to Cooperstown to see Griffey being inducted this past July. His strong and confident presence will be missed.

Survived by his wife Maelita, along with their three children and three grandchildren. Son Gary and wife Katie, (Burke, Adelynn, Andrew), daughter Dana and husband Adolfo Sequeira who live in California. Daughter Anne and husband Jim Howes who live Montana.

The Bolton family is forever grateful for the response team of San Juan Island EMS, Coast Guard, San Juan Country Sheriff, Fish & Wildlife, and the private citizens who responded August 30th. Thank you.

In lieu of flowers and in honor of Gary please donate to San Juan Island EMS, P.O. Box 2178, Friday Harbor, WA 98250, for training and equipment.

Gary’s life will be celebrated in a memorial in the San Juan Islands next summer.