John Joseph Bolton

Aug 30, 2023

August 19, 1938 – August 21, 2023

Passed away peacefully at home two days after his 85th birthday with family by his side. He is survived by his beloved wife of 62 years, Elaine (nee Yanch), his children Cindy, Mike (Judy), and grandchildren Jory (Neil) and Cole (Ally). Predeceased by his parents Joseph and Madeline Bolton, stepfather Fergus McCarthy, mother-in-law Helen Yanch, and brother Michael Bolton. Sadly missed by Elaine’s siblings and their spouses, Carolyn & Bruce Hasler, Harold & Paula Yanch, Glenn & Vera Yanch, Joanne & Warren Cuddy, Ed & Helen Yanch and Marian and Harry Scanlan.

John began his career as a transport truck driver in Toronto before he and Elaine returned to Northbrook to take over the running of the Northbrook Hotel (Trapper’s Lounge) from his parents. While running the Hotel and raising a family, John and Elaine contributed greatly to local community. John was a founding member of the Kaladar Barrie Fire Department actively serving for 38 years (28 as Chief).

In 1994, after 28 years in the hotel business, John and Elaine moved to their rural property on “the Ridge” north of Cloyne where he enjoyed having time to putter, attend yard sales, and connect with friends and neighbours. In semi-retirement, he was a beloved school bus driver with North Addington Bus Lines driving several generations of children to NAEC.

John decided decades ago he wanted to donate his body to science to help future health providers learn. With his typical good humour, he was thrilled to tell people he would be going to Queen’s.

He was a master storyteller, background music player, matchmaker and friend to many.

In lieu of flowers please consider donating to the Mazinaw Lake Swim Program or a charity of your choice.

A Celebration of John’s life was held on Saturday, August 26th at Milestone Funeral Centre, 11928 Highway 41 Northbrook. Visitation from 11:30am to 2:00 pm with remembrances of a life well lived from 2-3 pm followed by a luncheon.

Rest easy, Chief; the Western Star has blown its horn.

Online memories and condolences can be shared with the family at www.milestonefuneralcenter.com.