John Russell Bolton, 84, Jasper

John Russell Bolton, 84, Jasper, passed away peacefully in the comfort of his home surrounded by his loved ones on Thursday, February 16, 2017, at 5:56 p.m. following an extended illness.

John was born in Shoals on November 9, 1932, to Dorothy Dillon, who preceded him in death along with three half-brothers Melvin Bolton, Jon Leonard, Jim Leonard and half-sisters Bette Ann Schmidt and Ruby Atchison.

Survivors include his beloved wife of 61 years, Rosa (Powell) Bolton; two daughters, Debbie (Bob) Taylor of Anderson, Karen Lombness of Clarkston Mich., and a son, Tim (Alicia) Bolton of Jasper; 10 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren. He also leaves behind his dearly loved half-sisters; Brenda (Mike) Jones of Washington, Carolene (John) Leonard, Bobbie Murray, and Dee Dee (Don) Trout, all of Robinson, IL.

John was a U.S. Navy veteran, serving during the Korean War from 1951-1954. Early in his career, he was employed 21 years at McCord Corporation in Washington as a plant superintendent when the company phased out. John retired from Kimball Electronics in Jasper after 20 years of employment as a manufacturing manager. He enjoyed spending time with family, fishing, golfing and watching the Indianapolis Colts.

John was a charter member of Shiloh United Methodist Church where he served faithfully on the initial church building committee, a lay leader representative at the general conference, a trustee, and many other areas of service.

Two recent lifetime highlights include a recorded interview of John’s stories from the Korean War with a veteran representative which are recorded in the Library of Congress. Another highlight was recognition for the prestigious 50-year membership award with the Masonic Lodge.

A celebration of life will take place at 11:00 a.m. EST Monday, February 20, 2017, at the Shiloh United Methodist Church in Jasper with military burial to follow at Shiloh Cemetery in Ireland.  The V.F.W. Post #673 will conduct military gravesite rites.  Grandson Rev. Brandon Risch and Rev. Paul Alvey will officiate the service.

Friends may call for visitation at Shiloh United Methodist Church from 3:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Sunday, February 19, 2017, and one hour before the funeral service on Monday.  The Masons will conduct a memorial service at 6:00 p.m. at the church.

Memorial contributions may be donated to Lange-Fuhs Cancer Center or Heart to Heart Hospice.

Online condolences may be made at www.becherkluesner.com.