Michael H. Bolin

Michael H. Bolin
June 20, 1952 – September 26, 2025

Michael Bolin passed away peacefully at his home on September 26th, 2025. He was born on June 20th, 1952 to the late Howard and Johanna Bolin. He is preceded in death by his sister, Jacqueline (Jackie) Hazen and in-laws Richard and Joyce Podell.

He is survived by his wife of 24 years, Rebecca Podell-Bolin and by his three children: Ian Bolin (wife Yvonne, children Ella and Finn); Aaron Bolin (wife Emily, children Nathan, Ava, and William); and Dana Kujawski (husband Michael, children Ariana and Taylor).

Mike attended both St. Joseph and Clay High Schools, graduating in 1970, and proudly served in the U.S. Army National Guard.

Mike loved machines-from the road to the water and beyond. Cars were always at the center of his personal and professional life. Through his career he owned and operated several gas and service stations, including one of Northern Indiana's largest Amoco dealers. If he wasn't fixing or towing a car, you could often find him behind the wheel of one. His passion for great cars was contagious, and his loyalty to one particular German brand was legendary.

When he wasn't perfecting his lawn, or repairing something (anything), Mike found joy on the water with family and friends. These sunny days were often accompanied by Bob Seger playing on the radio and a cold one in his hand. Winters brought snowmobiles and unforgettable trips 'Up North.' His children's upbringings are framed with amazing memories from the many times on the water or a snowy trail where their dad was truly in his element.

Mike proved that people can change. Once declaring golf "a waste of time," he later fell in love with the game, spending hours on the course enjoying the time together with his wife Becky. He made it a tradition to golf with his friends and happily host FBFs afterward in his barn. He is surely in heaven today playing a round with his father, mother, and sister.

Mike and Becky shared a life together filled with travel, adventure and family. They poured love into planning and building their dream home on the St. Joseph River and more recently renovating their current home. His hard work and spirit will live on here for years to come.

He also had a lifelong affection for dogs, finding joy in their loyalty and companionship. His home was always alive with wagging tails and warm hearts.

Mike's life was defined by motion-on roads, trails, and waves-and by the connections he built along the way. He was a man of precision, pride, and humor, who found joy in machines, great music, and moments with those he loved. His family will carry forward his determination, resilience, strong work ethic, great story telling ability, and his steadfast belief in doing things the right way.

A viewing will take place on Saturday, October 4th, from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m., followed immediately by a Mass at St. Pius X Catholic Church in Granger, Indiana. The family will host a private celebration of Michael's life afterward, by invitation.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to:

University of Chicago Cancer Research Foundation
130 E. Randolf St. Suite 2500
Chicago, IL 60601
773-702-6180
uccrf@bsd.uchicago.edu