James “Jim” W. Bolton, PhD, of Edinboro, passed away on Saturday, May 8th, 2021. He was born on October 10, 1950 in Oil City, Pennsylvania, the son of the late Fonzy Willard Bolton and Evelyn (Lindquist) Bolton.
He received various degrees in education from Indiana University of Pennsylvania, Westminster College of Pennsylvania, and Edinboro University of Pennsylvania; culminating in receiving his PhD in Instructional Systems and Technology from Penn State University. He ended his career as Interim Dean of Education at Edinboro University.
On September 1st 1979, Jim married the love of his life, Christine Ozimek. They raised two wonderful children, Jamie and Jenna.
It was hard to go anywhere without Jim knowing someone there. As a former football player and wrestler, he went on to coach both sports, connecting him to many people in the surrounding communities. As the consummate coach, he later served as a mentor to his fellow educators during his time at EUP. He also was involved in many professional technology organizations: NPAECT, PETE&C, ISTE, as well as serving as the President of PAECT. He cherished his lifelong friendships from these organizations.
His love of sports continued through his devotion to Penn State. He enjoyed many tailgates and Saturdays armchair coaching the boys. He shared this love with his children and daughter-in-law who all attended Penn State. Jim also bestowed his love of other hobbies to his family including skiing, camping, boating, and gardening.
Known as “Papa” to his grandkids, he was a wonderful joke teller, elf, and source of joy and love for the children. Jim’s Christmas brittle was the hit of the season. He will be dearly missed by his family and friends for his story-telling, warmth, and unwavering generosity.
Jim is survived by his beloved wife Christine of 41 years; his children, Jamie (Amy) and Jenna; his grandchildren, Finlay, Anna and Mary; his brother John; and many other loving family members.
Friends are invited to call on Wednesday, May 12th at 1pm to 3pm and 5pm to 7pm at Van Matre Family Funeral Home, 306 Erie Street, Edinboro, PA. The funeral service will be held on Thursday, May 13th at 11:00 a.m.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family in care of the funeral home.
So sorry to see Jim go. I served as Jim’s advisor all through his doctoral program, and I remember his first week, when he can to me and said, “I don’t think I’m gonna make it. My stat textbook is four inches thick and it’s written in Greek.
But he did make it, because that’s who he was. Strong. Determined. Hard working. And fun. It was my pleasure to know Jim for over 30 years, as a tea her, as a colleague, and as a friend.
Sorry I wasn’t able to join the memorial service. Catherine and I will remember him fondly. Our sympathy and best wishes to Chris and the family.
Chris, Jenna and Jamie – I was so sad to learn of Jim’s passing! My sincere condolences to you all. I know he will be sorely missed. He was a great colleague and friend.
I was shocked when I saw Jim’s name on VanMatre’s digital board this morning. It was too late for me to attend the service or give my respects. I am so sorry for your loss-Chris, Jamie and Jenna. He was a great man, husband, father and papa. I am down the road, Chris if there is anything I can do or if you just want to sit on the porch and talk. Love to all of you.
My condolences to the family. Sending you strength, hope ,comfort and peace.
I am going to repeat & add to a message I sent Chris on Saturday as I just can’t shake this terrible news : “Oh my! I am saddened to hear this, I did not know he was ill. My immediate thoughts go to what a great person he was. We started in a biz relationship, selling him school tech materials but quickly became fast friends. His wit knocked me out & we laughed many many evenings before and after a few toddies. I could always count on Jim to be right up there on his Ed tech knowledge as we discussed many scenarios in his school districts and at conferences. I am stunned. I just see his smiling face now as I think of him. I hope he did not suffer and that you and your children will get through this ok. Inevitably during our discussions, his lovely family came up as we discussed various sports (swimming for sure), football, and our ultimate bosses, our wives. As a Pitt alumni, he gave it to me! All of you and he will be in my prayers today & for some time. I still have the Clearfield 10-0 champion football sweatshirt he game me & I wear it working in my lawn, always thinking of him as I put it on. Thank you for taking time to text & to share this sad news. I am honored you would do that. God bless him and all of you. 🥲🙏And a beer toast to Jim 🍺”
So sorry to learn of Jim’s passing. I have many fond memories of him. My deepest sympathy to the Bolton family.