Billy J. Bolin

Billy J. Bolin Sr., born December 17, 1924 went to his heavenly home on April 24, 2023. Bill was raised in Leachville, Arkansas until his early teens. Bill was 15 when his mother passed from TB. He and his sisters (Bernice and Betty) moved to St. Louis to live with their Aunt Lella. Bill had several jobs in St. Louis prior to enlisting in the Marine Corp, in 1943. He was stationed in the Pacific during WWII. Upon returning to St. Louis, following an honorable discharge, he worked at Supreme Sandwich shop where he became part owner. This is where he met his wife of 53 years, Dorthea.Together they had 4 children, who married blessing them with daughter and son in-laws: Bill Jr (Toni), Linda (Dwan), Robert (Jeanetta) and Kelli. Now these children blessed them with 12 grandchildren, some of which married: Breeanna Bolin (Chance), Shannon Richardson (Tony), Mellanee Welty, Nick Stanberry (Jackie), Heather Mueller (Brett) Tara Larson (Adam), Barbara Carrell, Phillip Bolin, Amber Bolin, Stephanie Singh (Trishan), Ashley McGrath, Brittanie Williamson. The family kept growing, as these children had children giving Bill and Dorthea 20 great grandchildren.

Bill married Traci Zink on September 30, 2001. Giving Bill a step-son, Cody Zink, who was one of his best buddies. In 2003, their daughter Taryn was born. She was such a blessing to him in his later years.

Bill was a very active member of Bethany Lutheran Church, holding such positions as: President, Elder, Sunday School Teacher, Treasurer, and Boy Scout leader. He completed the Stephen ministries course.

Bill worked several different jobs to support his family. He went to where the jobs were leaving St. Louis to take a job in Kansas City, MO, selling material handling equipment, then later to Wichita for Oliver Handling. He stayed with the company through several name changes and owners. Bill retired from being the President of Lift Truck Center after 53 years. He received multiple awards and trips for sales during this time.

Bill loved spending time with his family, telling jokes, working in his yard, caring for his roses, watching Hee Haw, Lawrence Welk, The Porter Wagner Show (Dolly Parton) listening to Jimmy Rodgers, Johnny Cash, big band music, and playing his harmonica. Bill loved life and enjoyed it to the fullest.

Bill was known throughout his family for his fried chicken, mashed potatoes, and homemade ice cream.

Memorial has been established at: Bethany Lutheran Church

A visitation for Billy will be held Friday, April 28, 2023 from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Resthaven Mortuary, 11800 West Highway 54, Wichita, KS 67209. A funeral service will occur Saturday, April 29, 2023 at 10:00 AM at Bethany Lutheran Church, 1000 W. 26th St. S., Wichita, KS 67217 with a graveside service to follow at Resthaven Gardens of Memory, 11800 West Highway 54, Wichita, KS 67209.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.ResthavenMortuary-Cemetery.com for the Bolin family.