Charles Bolam

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Charles “Butch” Bolam, 81, of St. Charles, MO, formerly of Belleville, IL, born June 27, 1941, in Ottumwa, IA, died Wednesday, October 12, 2022, at his residence.

Charles served in the U.S. army stationed in Germany and served on active duty in the Vietnam War as a radio engineer. Mr. Bolam worked for the Alton Southern Railroad before his retirement. He was a proud railroad union supporter and served as a union leader.

Butch and his wife Karen ran a firearms shop and shooting range for many years in New Athens, IL. He enjoyed various hobbies and interests, including aviation, amateur radio, martial arts, Boy Scouts of America, and motorsports. Always ready for the next adventure, he lived with his son in Costa Rica for several years.

Charles was preceded in death by his wife of 48 years, Karen, nee Harreld, Bolam, whom he married on February 3, 1964, and who died on April 25, 2012; his parents, William F. and Jean, nee Tolman, Bolam; a brother, David Bolam; and sisters, Betty Weir and Mary Bolam.

Surviving are three children, Matthew Bolam of St. Charles, MO,
Nathan (Erika) Bolam of St. Charles, MO,
and Melissa Harrison of Alton, MO;
eight grandchildren, Brendan Meredith of Norfolk, AR,
Shawn (Kensie) Meredith of Salt Lake City, UT,
Jason (Miranda) Stanley of Alton, MO,
Matthew Bolam Jr. and Patrick Bolam, both of Okawville, IL,
T.J. Bolam of New Athens, IL,
and Kyla and Briella Bolam of St. Charles, MO;
ten great-grandchildren;
a sister, Sarah (Kent) McNeill;
a niece, Anne (Dave) Talignani;
a grand-niece, Judy Bolam;
and numerous loving relatives and friends.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be to any P.O.W./M.I.A. organization.  Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.rennerfh.com.

Visitation:  Friends may visit from 4 to 7 p.m. Thursday, October 20, 2022, at George Renner & Sons Funeral Home, Belleville, IL.

Funeral:  A memorial services will be held at 7 p.m. Thursday, October 20, 2022, at George Renner & Sons Funeral Home, Belleville, IL, with Deacon Corby Valentine officiating.

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1 Comment on Charles Bolam

Denis Wier said : Guest Report Oct 15, 2022 at 3:28 PM

God Bless him and his family . Rest In Peace my Uncle will miss you

  • Belleville
  • Il.

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