Barbara Bolton

Barb was born on March 2, 1934, in Skanee, the daughter of Russell and Helvi (Toyras) Johnson. She graduated from L’Anse High School with the class of 1952.

On Aug. 29, 1953, Barb married the love of her life, Rodney J. Bolton in L’Anse. Together they shared 66 wonderful years of marriage before his passing in 2019. Shortly after marriage they moved to Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to start their lives together. Barb worked at Cutler Hammer in Milwaukee for four years. In 1957, they moved back to L’Anse to raise their family. Barb and Rod loved living in L’Anse, raising their family, and enjoying the community and friends.

She was a devoted member of Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic church, where she also participated in the ladies auxiliary.

Barb then began a career in the food service industry, working at the Hilltop restaurant for 10 years and then Tony’s Steakhouse for 35 years. She was known for her warm smile and friendly nature.

After retirement, she volunteered at St. Vincent de Paul and was active in the Red Hat Ladies organization. Also in retirement, she and Rod purchased a home in Florida, where they enjoyed many winters with friends in the sunshine.

Barb found joy in baking, shopping, traveling, and fishing. She and Rod fished for lake trout over many years. She continued to fish on Lake Superior up to the age of 90. She also enjoyed dancing with Rod, flower gardening, berry picking, and playing cards. Most of all, Barb cherished time with her family and friends.

She is survived by her children, Rodney S. (Linda) Bolton of Sturgis, Michigan, Shelley Bolton, and Todd (Joy) Bolton, both of L’Anse; grandchildren, Daniel and Jennifer Bolton, and Ryan and Lindsay Allman; great-grandchildren, Lucas and Brody LaValley, and Exelia Bolton; sister, Diane (Charlie) Eshbach of Houghton; brothers, Clark (Pat) Westman and Terry (Bonnie) Westman, both of L’Anse; and many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Preceding Barb in death were her husband, Rodney J. Bolton; parents, Russell Johnson and Helvi Gorinac; stepfathers, Oscar Westman and Joseph Gorinac; in-laws, Mary and Oscar Peterson; and sister-in-law, Francis Field.

The family wishes to extend a sincere thank you to the caring staff at Bayside Village.

Her funeral mass will be held on Saturday, Nov. 1, at 1 p.m. at Sacred Heart of Jesus church in L’Anse, with Fr. Ben Rivard officiating. Visitation will be for one hour prior to the service in the church. A luncheon will follow in the church hall.

Jacobson Funeral Home is assisting the family.

Friends may sign Barbara’s guest book or send condolences at www.jacobsonfuneralhome.com.