Celebration of Life This Saturday for Long-time Victor Residents
William J. Bolander was born in Victor, Colorado, on October 10, 1926, and passed away on October 18, 2025, in Lee’s Summit, Missouri.
Known to many as “Bill,” he grew up in Victor and spent many years ranching with Ed Hugh’s family. He later served in the U.S. Army during World War II and was stationed in Manila as an MP (Military Police). After returning home, he married Mariella in April 1949. Together, they raised three daughters: Mary, Billie, and Della.
Bill was employed in the Cripple Creek–Victor Gold District mines until their closure in 1959, after which the family relocated to Missouri. He joined the Heavy Equipment Operators Union and retired in 1988. In later years, Bill and Mariella enjoyed life in Cañon City from 2001 to 2020, before Bill returned to Missouri to be closer to family.
Bill will be remembered for his love of the outdoors and the simple joys of life, especially riding horses and roping—and for the delight he found in flying airplanes. He is survived by three daughters, Mary Walker, Della Mescher (Doug), and Billie Bolander; four grandchildren and their spouses; and many great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Lila and Joseph Bolander; his sister, Edith Tucker; and his beloved wife, Mariella.
A celebration of life for both Bill and Mariella will be held on Saturday, May 2, at 11:00 a.m., at First Baptist Church in Victor (corner of Portland and South 4th Street). Family and friends are welcome to join in remembering and honoring their lives.
