Michael L. Bolyard

My Best Friend Michael L. Bolyard. April 6, 1945 - March 9, 2012 Mike was born in Wenatchee, Washington, but the family moved to Richmond, California soon after where he was raised. He was eldest of 2 sons born to David Lee Bolyard and Margaret Ethel (McCown) Bolyard. Mike grew up in Richmond and attended DeAnza High School where he met and married his high school sweetheart, Patricia Brannon. They have on son, David Richard Bolyard and 3 precious grandchildren: Casaundra, Brittany and Robert. Mike took great pride in his son and grandchildren. They were the light of his life. The family moved to Roseburg, Oregon in 1977 where Mike went to work for the rural water company from which he retired one year ago after 33 years. He worked at many occupations, but his favorite place of employment, that he spoke of often and with great affection, was the Pacific Gas and Electric Co of Richmond. Though the job was dangerous, he always spoke affectionately of those he worked with and enjoyed telling of the many hair-raising incidents that happened to him while working there. No matter what job he was assigned or just chose to do, Mike always gave more than his 100% and did it with great pride in his accomplishments.. He had a wonderful gift of gab and loved talking to anyone who would listen. He never filed to lend a helping hand wherever and whenever it was needed, and never asked for a thing in return. He was happy to give himself wholeheartedly and without reservation. He loved to travel and spent his retirement time visiting those people and places he has wanted to see for a long time. His plans for the next journey were cut short, but for those who missed his visit, know that you were in his heart and in his plans for a future road trip. Mike was a past president for the Umpqua Kennel Club. Mike is survived by his wife of 47 years, Patricia, his son David and grandchildren, Casaundra, Brittany and Robert. his brother, Richard Bolyard of California and numerous sisters in law and Brothers in law, many cousins and nieces and nephews. A Celebration of Life will be held in the future with the time, date and place to be announced.