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BORN
1948
DIED
2025
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Frank Bolinger Obituary
At the age of 14, Frank left the UK to join his father in Australia, and two years later, he made his way to the United States. At just 17, he enlisted in the U.S. Army and served with honor in the Vietnam War from 1965 to 1968. He was assigned to the 1st Signal Brigade, 21st Signal Group, 459th Signal Battalion, and remained in close contact with his fellow service members throughout his life.
Frank was a master craftsman whose hands brought new life to old things. His journey in craftsmanship began in the Eastleigh rail yard, where he worked on new trains. That passion followed him across continents and into a lifelong career in construction, cabinetry, and furniture making. One of his proudest moments came when he was hired to restore the historic 1872 steam locomotive, the Reno, at Old Tucson-where he also met the love of his life, Paula. They were married for 43 years and built a beautiful life together.
Frank is survived by his beloved wife, Paula Bolinger; his children, George Bolinger, Robert Bolinger, and Malena Martin; and his seven grandchildren: Nicholas Bolinger, Cameron Bolinger, Autumne Bolinger, Akara Bolinger, Diamon Cessna, Kristin Gross, and Steven Martin as well as many great grandchildren. He also leaves behind his brothers Roy Bolinger, David Lambert, Rhett Lambert, and Gregory Lambert, as well as many cherished nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, June Hodge and Ray Bolinger.
Frank was an avid outdoorsman who found joy in gardening, hunting, fishing, and camping. He also had a fondness for paint-by-number artwork and took great pride in restoring old items to their former glory. He will be remembered for his quiet strength, his skilled hands, and his favorite saying: "But first... a little whiskey."
A public visitation will be held on Friday, July 18, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, followed by a memorial service at 2:00 PM at Alsip Funeral Chapel, 404 10th Avenue South, Nampa, Idaho.
Frank was deeply loved and will be missed by all who knew him.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Frank Bolinger
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2 Entries
Howard Bartholf
July 17, 2025
My buddy Frank was like a brother I never had. We served in the Army together in Arizona and Vietnam in the 459th Signal Battalion. We linked up many years later along with Ray and Tom and other men of the battalion. General MacArthur once said that "Old Soldiers never die, they just fade away" all my pals and I are starting to fade away now, but as Frank and I always said as we finished our conversations "we will soldier on". See ya again pal as we fall in together again on that parade ground up yonder. Soldier on! Luv ya Howie and Jan.
Connie Griffitts
July 16, 2025
So sorry to hear of Frank´s passing. Worked with him for years, he was my buddy and just a great guy. May God comfort you Paula and the family in this difficult time
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