Irma Jane Rau Bolam

Born April 13, 1927 in Pekin, Illinois to Charles and Anna (Johannes) Rau; she married John O. Bolam, Jr. on February 7, 1948 and he preceded her in death on May 13, 1976.

Also preceding her in death are her sister, Charlotte (Rau) Philpott and brother, Carl Rau.

Surviving are her children, Pamela (Dorsey) Gibbons, Jeffrey (Linda) Bolam, and Melissa (Walt) Block, grandchildren, David (Carey) Gibbons, Jessica (Eric) Gibbons-Rauch, Jennifer (Jeffrey) Rauch, Emma (Drew) Grisamore, Jonathon (Breanna) Block and Joshua Block, and two great granddaughters, Jessica’s daughter, Madeline Rose Rauch and Jennifer’s daughter, Lucy Charlotte Rauch.

Her family meant the world to Irma, and she always enjoyed spending time with them, especially her grandchildren.

Irma graduated from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign in 1948 with a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry, an extraordinary accomplishment at that time. Her career encompassed twenty years as a science teacher at Morton Junior High School and then twenty years as a tax professional with H&R Block.

Irma actively volunteered in community service throughout her life. She was a member of Parkview United Church of Christ. She traveled extensively, creating many unique memories in her adventures.

The family recognizes the excellent care Irma received at Proctor Endowment Home from kind and loving caregivers and friends who became part of her family.

A Celebration of Irma’s Life will be held at JC Proctor Endowment Home on February 10, 2017. Doors will open at 10:30 am with the celebration beginning at 11:00 am in the main meeting room. Davison-Fulton Woolsey Funeral Home in Pekin was entrusted with the arrangements.

Memorials to Wildlife Prairie Park, 3826 N. Taylor Road, Hanna City, IL 61536 are suggested in lieu of flowers. Donations to Wildlife Prairie Park can be made to the link below; please check the “This is a tribute or memorial gift” checkbox and add “Irma R. Bolam” in the comments.

https://shop.wildlifeprairiepark.org/MakeDonation.aspx?skuid=1000564