Henry Bruce Bolitho

Henry "Bruce" Bolitho, 87, surrounded by the love of his family, passed away on October 12, 2013, at the Ray Hickey Hospice House. Bruce is remembered by his family and friends for his determination, his dedication to family, and the love he shared so openly. Bruce's loving spirit touched many lives.

Bruce was born December 31, 1925 in Butte, Montana to Thomas H. and Marian M. Bolitho. He met his wife, Helen Marie Hendrickson, at Columbia Gardens Park in Butte. He saw her walking toward him and told a friend, “that is the girl I’m going to marry.” They were married on August 2, 1945, in Missoula, Montana. Montana was a very special place for Bruce. Even after living in Washington for 52 years, he still called Montana "home." This past July, he and Helen spent three weeks at the family's ranch in Montana.

Bruce served in the United States Maritime Service and Merchant Marine Service from 1944-1946 as a Cook, Baker and Chief Cook. After his discharge, he returned to Butte and worked for the Dutch Girl Bakery. He later worked for Montana Power as a powerhouse operator and at Bonneville Power in substation operations and safety. He retired from Bonneville Power in 1988 as Chief, Substation Operations Branch. After his retirement, he started H&H Enterprises, where he taught first aid and workplace safety.

Family was a very important part in Bruce’s life. He loved activities where he was surrounded by his immediate and extended family. Bruce is survived by his loving wife of 68 years, Helen; children, John (Liz) Bolitho and Nancy Green; grandchildren, Gary Bolitho, Sandi Rubin and Chris Green; great grandchildren, Bradley Bolitho, McKenna Rubin, Jensin Rubin, Kyra Green and Collin Green; sister, Darlene Haller; sisters-in-law, Lorene Templeton, ViJean Marostica, Shirley McDonald and Judy Hendrickson and Margaret Hendrickson; and many nieces, nephews and friends.

A celebration of his life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to The Ray Hickey Hospice House.