John Earl Bolton, 74, passed away on February 5, 2025, in Racine, Wisconsin.

He was born on April 19, 1951, in Minter, Alabama, to the late John Arthur Hale and Catherine Williams Bolton.

John was a man known for his vibrant personality, warm spirit, and strong presence among family and friends. A devoted member of New Omega Baptist Church, he was proud to sing in the men's choir, sharing his voice and fellowship with others.

John had a deep love for working with his hands. He was an amazing gardener and a talented handyman who took great pride in improving his home and helping others. It was not uncommon for him to landscape a neighbor's yard free of charge—sometimes without even being asked—simply because he enjoyed making things beautiful for those around him.

He also loved cars, especially his beloved 1998 Cadillac and the family van that carried him and his three girls on many long trips and adventures. Around the neighborhood he was affectionately known as "Dr. Strangelove," a nickname he even displayed on his van.

In the kitchen, John was known as an excellent cook whose meals brought family together. He was often described as the life of the party—someone who spoke his mind honestly and brought laughter and energy wherever he went. Above all, he loved his family deeply. He helped raise his grandchildren as if they were his own, and each of them held a special place in his heart.

John was preceded in death by his mother, Catherine Bolton (2017), and three brothers: Johnny Will Bolton (1998), Willie Edward Bolton (2012), Edward Bolton (2016), and James Bolton

He leaves to cherish his memory his loving children: Sharon Latesia Gentry (Russell Dewayne Gentry Sr.), Selena Cassandra Garcia (Jesus Antonio Garcia), and Rosemary Proeber (Robert Proeber),

He is also survived by his beloved grandchildren: Evelyn Patricia Hiler; Jasmine Nicole Skott (Samuel Skott); Reminisce Destiny Cleberg (Christian Cleberg); Aahlaysia Nete' Gentry; Russell Dewayne Gentry Jr.; Tyler John Bolton; Memory Angelica Bolton-Garcia; Jeremiah Elijah Gentry; and Crystal Rose Bolton.

John was further blessed with great-grandchildren: Mariah Rosa Mae Taylor; Jayden Malachi De Leon; Isaiah O'Neal Taylor Jr.; Gianna Mae Cleberg; and Naomi Violet Kay Skott.

He is also survived by his siblings: sisters Fannie Brandenburg (Danny) Trotman of Rosedale, New York, and Lellia James Blair of McKinney, Texas; and brothers Arthur (Margaret), Bossie (Angelee), and Willie Jr. (Roberta), all of Racine, Wisconsin; Clarence of Sacramento, California; and Earnest Lee (Georgia) of Toledo, Ohio.

John will be remembered for his love of God, family, his generosity, his laughter, and the joy he brought into the lives of those who knew him.

Family and friends are invited to meet in the Draeger-Langendorf Funeral Home and Crematory on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, for a visitation from 10:00 am – 11:00 am.  A service celebrating his life and Homegoing will follow at 11:00 am.   An interment will take place at Graceland Cemetery.

Service Details

Family and friends are invited to meet in the Draeger-Langendorf Funeral Home and Crematory on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, for a visitation from 10:00 am – 11:00 am.

A service celebrating his life and Homegoing will follow at 11:00 am.

Those wishing to watch via livestrream may click on this link at 11:00 am https://youtube.com/live/thMnvPPCq4o?feature=share

DUE TO MUSIC LICENSING LAWS, YOU MAY EXPERIENCE MOMENTS WITHOUT SOUND WHEN RECORDED MUSIC IS PLAYED.

An interment will take place at Graceland Cemetery.