James William Bolin

Jim passed away peacefully in his sleep in the early morning Oct. 30, 2013. He was born in Seattle on Feb. 18, 1948 to Lorenz and Margaret (Hunziker) Bolin.

Jim graduated from the University of Washington in 1970. From 1974 until his retirement in 2006, he worked for the Social Security Administration.

Since moving to Whidbey Island, Jim has been involved with the South Whidbey Historical Society, recently as president. The Society fed Jim’s interest in history generally, and specifically his local family history.

His mother’s family were early settlers in Langley and Jim felt a special connection to the island. Jim’s other interests included reading, following the local sports teams, his friends, his dogs and cats and most importantly his family.

Jim had a crazy sense of humor, always teasing. He was a special man, greatly loved by his family and friends. We miss him dearly.

This past year had been a tough one for Jim. We would like to thank all the caregivers who helped him.

The doctors, nurses and aides at Providence Medical Center in Everett; the therapists, aides and nurses at Forest View Transitional Care in Everett. And more recently, the therapists and wound care nurse from Whidbey General Hospital in Coupeville; and his doctors and staff at South Island Medical.

Last, but not least, the EMT’s of South Whidbey Fire/EMS who responded so quickly when Jim collapsed in March and again when he passed.

The family is very grateful for all of their care and support.

Jim is survived by his wife Ardeth; son Evan, of Issaquah; sister and brother-in-law Mary and John Solack, of Seattle; nephews Mark (Erin) Solack, of Olympia; and Brian (Jenine) Solack and family, of Everett; brother-in-law Stephen Bingham, of Riverside; parents-in-law Don and Joan Bingham, of Allentown, Pa.; aunt Winnie Shelton, of Coupeville; sisters-in-law Stephanie Gorman and family and Sally (Gary) Batchelder and family of Pennsylvania, and numerous cousins.

A celebration of Jim’s life will be held at a later date.

Donations to honor Jim should be sent to the South Whidbey Historical Society, Westie Rescue through Seattle Pure Bred Dog Rescue or Whidbey Animal Improvement Fund.