On August 23, 2022, Ray passed away unexpectedly at his home in Riverton surrounded by his loved ones.
Ray was born July 27, 1943 in Alton, IL to Wilbert Calvin Bolen and Fern Elizabeth Stolze Bolen. He was the oldest of 3 children. Ray spent his younger years in IL before the family relocated to the Seattle, WA area.
Ray graduated from Renton High School in 1961 in Washington, and joined the Army shortly thereafter. During his time in the Army Ray was stationed at various bases one of which was Fort Douglas in SLC. This is where Ray met his wife, Linda. They were married in Las Vegas, NV in 1965.
Ray was an avid antique classic car collector. He could usually be found in the garage tinkering with his cars. A few of his favorites included a 1927 Model T, a 1928 Model A, a 1949 Chrysler Sedan, and most recently his 1966 Ford Mustang. Ray loved taking his cars to all the local car shows and loved being in the Parades in the summer.
In his younger years, Ray enjoyed taking the family camping in the deserts of NV where they would ride motorcycles and mine for turquoise and gold.
Ray was usually the “life of the party” and could sit and carry on a conversation with just about anyone.
Ray served 15 years in the Army and was proud to have served his country.
He also worked for many years at Western Electric, and Scott Machinery, and finished his working career at The Home Depot.
Ray is survived by his Wife of 57 years, Linda. Children: Ken (DeAnn) Bolen of Riverton, UT, Lisa Bolen-Thompson of Herriman, UT, Todd (Lisa) Bolen of Farmington, UT.
8 Grandchildren: Jake, Lindsey, Kassidey, Lexie, Kenzie, Brayden, Abbie, & Ally
3 Great Grandchildren: Aden, Tuckker, and Journey
Services for Ray will be held on Tues, August 30, 2022, at Larkin Mortuary in Riverton – 3688 West 12600 South – Riverton, UT 84065. A viewing will be held from 10:00 am – 12:00 pm with the Service starting at 12:00 pm. There will be a graveside service immediately following at the Herriman City Cemetery – 12465 Pioneer Street Herriman, UT 84096
There will also be a Celebration of Life Reception held at Ray’s Daughter’s Home in Herriman (Lisa Bolen) immediately following the graveside service - 4873 West Cobblefield Drive, Herriman, UT
I was shocked to see that Mel passed away. We spent many years serving together in the National Guard. Mel was the funniest guys I have ever known. He enjoyed life to the fullest and made everyone around him laugh with his many stories. I am going to miss you my friend. Rest in peace.