Obituary of Francis Bolger Jr

Francis Eugene Bolger Jr. died peacefully at his home in Sun City Center, FL in the company of Sandy, his wife of 58 years, and his 3 living children. He was 83 years young when he passed on Sunday June 4, 2023.

Fondly known as Gene, he was born on July 7, 1939 in Toledo, Ohio, to Francis Bolger Sr. and Mary Louise (Tansey) Bolger, along with his 5 loving sisters. While he resided all over the country (and abroad) during his life, Gene left this world having lived in his current home for 23 years; the longest of any residence in his 83 years.

At a young age, Gene enlisted in the US Air Force. He was stationed overseas in Scotland for 1.5 years, and spent the remainder of his 4 years of service in Spain. All who knew him would say that Honor exemplified every aspect of his life.

Gene’s work ethic was unsurpassed; whenever someone needed a hand with a project, he was the first to show up to assist. He was a dedicated parishioner of the many churches he belonged to over the years; he began as an altar boy at a very young age and ending with a maintenance position at his current parish, Prince of Peace.

An avid fisherman, outdoorsman, sports enthusiast, and all around prankster, Gene was loved by all who met him. His quick wit and one liners were incomparable. He was a consummate gentleman, who seemed to have a unique and distinctive manner in which he greeted each of the countless special people in his life.

Gene is survived by his wife Sandra (Blank) Bolger, and 3 children: Chris (husband Steven) Lystad, Matt (wife Jeannie) Bolger and Luke Bolger. Gene had 7 grandchildren: Tonder Lystad, Tansey Hensley, Shandon Corwin, Kristian Lystad, Macie Bolger, Anna Bolger and Katie Bolger. He became Great-Grandpa Gene to Brooklyn and Ryker Corwin. He is survived by sisters Joanne Rizzardi, Michelle (husband Tim) Reineck, and Deborah (husband John) Corcoran, along with a plethora of nieces and nephews to whom his love extended throughout his entire life.

Gene was preceded in death by his beloved son, Terry Bolger, parents Francis Bolger and Mary Lou Bolger, sisters Elizabeth “Betty” Blanchard and Kathleen Green, as well as many extended family members.

Arrangements to celebrate Gene’s life are scheduled for Friday, July 14, 2023 beginning with a Funeral Mass at 10:00 am at Prince of Peace Catholic Church 702 Valley Forge Blvd, Sun City Center, FL 33573, followed by a Military Burial at Sarasota National Cemetery 9810 State Road 72, Sarasota, FL 34241 at 12:30. In addition, a luncheon will be held at 2:00 pm in the Florida Room at Sun City Center Community Association Center, 945  North Course Lane, Sun City Center, FL 33573.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Gene’s favorite and cherished charity: St. Jude Children’s Hospital  -- www.stjude.org