John Adolph “Jack” Bolz, a respected figure in Madison, Wisconsin, passed away on May 30, 2023, at the age of 95. Born on July 20, 1927, Jack Bolz lived a full and impactful life dedicated to his family, community, and numerous philanthropic endeavors. While details surrounding his passing have been shared by loved ones, it’s important to remember John Bolz not for any speculated incidents, but for the remarkable life he led and the positive influence he had on Dane County and beyond. This tribute celebrates his life, achievements, and lasting legacy.
A Life of Service and Commitment
Jack Bolz’s early life was rooted in Madison, WI, as the youngest child of Adolph C. and Eugenie Mayer Bolz. He was preceded in death by his brother Robert M. Bolz and sister Marjorie Allen. His educational journey began at Shattuck Military Academy, graduating in 1945, after which he served his country by enlisting in the Navy at the young age of 18. Following his military service, Bolz utilized the GI Bill to attend the University of Wisconsin-Madison. He pursued his higher education with dedication, enrolling in ROTC and earning a B.S. Degree in Economics and Political Science in 1950. His academic pursuits continued at the University of Wisconsin Law School for two years before he was commissioned in the Army, serving as a Military Police Officer in Korea in 1954.
Alt text: A young John Bolz pictured in his Military Police Officer uniform during his service in Korea, showcasing his early commitment to service.
Building a Career and Family
In 1957, Jack Bolz married Marian Richter of Chicago, IL, marking the beginning of a loving partnership and family. Together, they raised five children while Jack cultivated a successful career spanning over 30 years with Oscar Mayer & Co. His professional journey saw him take on diverse roles across the nation, from sales and marketing to eventually becoming VP of Corporate Relations. His dedication and business acumen made him a valuable asset to the company.
Philanthropic Leadership and Community Stewardship
Beyond his professional life, John Bolz, alongside his siblings, played a crucial role in directing the Eugenie Mayer Bolz Family Foundation. This foundation became a significant force for good, supporting a wide range of community programs and projects that enriched Dane County and the Great Lakes Region. His commitment to philanthropy extended far beyond the foundation. Jack actively led and contributed to numerous civic organizations and foundations, championing causes such as nature conservancies, public parks, clean lakes, botanical gardens and zoos, youth programs, arts and music initiatives, the justice system, assisted living facilities, hospitals, and community foundations like the Madison Community Foundation and United Way Foundation of Dane County. His financial expertise and unwavering dedication to community stewardship were highly valued by these organizations.
Alt text: John and Marian Bolz pictured together at a charity event, highlighting their shared commitment to philanthropy and community support in Madison.
Badger Spirit and Passion for Life
A devoted Badger fan, Jack Bolz served on the University of Wisconsin-Madison’s College of Letters and Science Board of Visitors for many years. He and Marian were also enthusiastic supporters of the University’s Bolz Center for Arts Administration. His connection to his faith was also important, as he served in various leadership positions at Grace Episcopal Church in Madison. Known affectionately as “Captain Jack,” he was a competitive scow sailor and held the position of Commodore at both the Mendota Yacht Club and the Inland Lakes Yachting Association.
Beyond his formal commitments, Jack was the heart of his family. He cherished opportunities for fun and adventure, whether in Madison, the Northwoods of Wisconsin, California deserts, or Colorado mountains. He maintained a wide circle of lifelong friends and cousins, all of whom appreciated his playful nature and sense of humor. Despite his love for travel, his home in the Village of Maple Bluff held a special place in his heart, where he lived for many years and even served as President of the Village Board. His passions included the outdoors, skiing, sailing, iceboating, fishing, cooking brats at family gatherings, and taking his family on pontoon boat rides and Sunday drives.
Family and Remembrance
John Bolz was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and family elder. His wife and lifelong partner, Marian, sadly passed away just a week after him. He is survived by his five children: Joan Cleary (Jeff) of Burlingame, CA; Carolyn Glah (Bob) of Aspen, CO; Julia Bolz of Madison, WI; Cathy Wilson (Eric) of Seattle, WA; and John R. Bolz of Ann Arbor, MI; along with 14 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.
Alt text: A heartwarming photo of the Bolz family gathered together, celebrating their strong family bonds and John Bolz’s role as a beloved family elder.
A visitation celebrating the lives of both Jack and Marian Bolz will be held at Cress Funeral Home, 3610 Speedway Rd. in Madison, WI, on June 15 from 2:30-5pm. A combined funeral service will take place at Grace Episcopal Church, 116 W. Washington Ave. in Madison on June 16 at 11am.
The Bolz Family expresses their sincere gratitude for the compassionate care provided to Jack by the caregivers at Capitol Lakes Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation Center and Agrace in Madison. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to Olbrich Botanical Gardens or United Way of Dane County in remembrance of John A. “Jack” Bolz and his remarkable life.
Alt text: The logo for Olbrich Botanical Gardens, one of the organizations John Bolz supported, inviting donations in his memory.
Alt text: The logo for United Way of Dane County, another of John Bolz’s favored charities, encouraging donations in his honor.
