Thomas L. Bolitho

Thomas Leigh Bolitho, 66, of Marquette, died Thursday morning, June 26, 2008, at Marquette General Hospital, following a lengthy battle with leukemia. Tom was the oldest child of Roberta H. & Dr. T. Boyd Bolitho. While born in Hartford, CT, he spent most of his life in Marquette and considered himself a "Yooper". Tom was a 1960 graduate of Graveraet High School and a graduate of Northern Michigan University with a Bachelor of Science in business administration with a minor in biology. In college he was a member of Tau Kappa Epsilon. He worked for most of his professional life as a real estate broker and a partner in the development company, Lost Creek Land and Cattle Company. He also worked for many years as a master painter for Balmes Decorators. During the Vietnam War he served as a medic in the US Army. As all who enjoyed meals prepared by Tom will agree, he was an accomplished gourmet chef. His fabulous meals will be missed by many—but most of all by his wife! Tom was a master gardener and loved spending time in his vegetable garden. From an early age he was a horse lover, a love he shared with his father. Under his father's 6 B Stable banner, he raced their harness horses. After graduating from high school his love for horses continued as he traveled throughout the US while working for a professional racing stable. Tom was also a history buff, with special interest in the Civil War. He not only studied the Civil War, but he also traveled to many Civil War battlegrounds with his parents and supported the Civil War Trust. Tom was a volunteer "extraordinaire" at the American Legion, affectionately known as his second home. Tom was the building manager and did much work throughout the years, including the planning and overseeing the renovation of the kitchen. He managed and prepared for the fish fry's for many years and special dinners for the veterans from Jacobetti Home for Veterans as well as various groups. The American Legion Post 44 was an important part of his life, and he thoroughly enjoyed his association with the Legion and his many friends there. More than anything else, Tom loved his family and cherished his many good friends—with many friendships spanning more than 50 years. Not only did they get together every week, but they also enjoyed many wonderful memories as they fished, cut wood, worked on maintenance projects, and enjoyed a special bond and comradery at the beloved Conway camp. Tom is remembered for his intelligence, quick wit, empathy, loyalty and being a friend to many. He is survived by Lynne, his wife of 40 years, mother, Roberta Bolitho of Marquette, sister, Kristen Carl Pasbjerg Bolitho of Rochester Hills, MI, brother, Fred Barbara Bolitho of Marquette and many nieces, nephews and cousins. He is preceded in death by his father, Dr. T. Boyd Bolitho and brother, William Bolitho. On Wednesday, July 2, 2008 at St. Paul's Episcopal Church in Marquette a visitation will be held at 1 p.m. with the a memorial service to follow at 2 p.m. After the service family and friends are invited to the American Legion Post 44, 700 W. Bluff Street, Marquette, to participate in a celebration of Tom's life and reminisce about the many funny stories and good times that they shared. Those wishing to make donations are asked to consider the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, 1311 Mamaroneck Avenue, Suite 310, White Plains, NY 10605 or any charity of your choosing. The Canale-Tonella Funeral Home is assisting the family.