John Gary BOLM

BOLM, John Gary Age 72, of Green Valley passed away February 8, 2018 of cancer. Born August 16, 1945 in Buffalo, NY, John was preceded in death by his parents, Doris (Englund) and John W. Bolm and his first wife, Karen S. Bolm. John was survived by his wife, Irma Bolm; his step-children; his brother, Jim Bolm; his nephew and nieces; and his best friend, Lee Tien Chang and his children. John grew up in Des Plaines, Illinois, completed his undergraduate degree at Augustana College and did his Master's and PhD in Geology at the University of Idaho. Before completing his PhD, he served in the U.S. Coast Guard. He lived in Alaska (1973 to 1987) where he worked for the U.S. Geological Survey. He then decided to leave Alaska and geology, moving to Arizona where he obtained a law degree and opened a practice in Tucson. John, a devout Lutheran, had a remarkable life full of adventures that should be part of a book. While in the Coast Guard, he caught a Russian fishing ship in American waters near Kodiak, Alaska, held them under arrest, and then played chess with them while the boat is being towed to base. He was an amazing story teller not only because he had a great memory but also because he could understand what human existence is all about. Everyone enjoyed his dry humor and ability to deliver a great punch line (twice). He positively impacted the life of many through his work, church and Mission to the Children in Mexico. John loved to travel, learn new languages and cultures and birding. He studied chess and read about the great chess masters, constantly looking to improve his game. In the last five years he found his new passion, Chinese Choir; its music moved him till the last days of his life. He was a protector, a mentor and a loving husband and friend. He will be missed by his family and friends. A Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, February 24, 2018 at 11:00 a.m. at Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church, 830 N. 1st Ave, Tucson, AZ 85719, with a lunch to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Mission to the Children (www.missiontothechildren.org). Arrangements by FUNERARIA AZAHARES.