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Former Nipissing MPP passes

Mike never forgot his roots. He was a self-described “ p’tit colon” from Cobalt, and was proud of having worked in the mines as a young man
bolan, mike 2016
Mike Bolan passed away Monday October 24th.

Former Nipissing MPP Mike Bolan has passed away at age 83.

The Honourable Justice Michael G. Bolan (ret.) died peacefully in his sleep on Monday, October 24 at the North Bay Regional Health Centre.

He was a Liberal Member of the Ontario Legislature from 1977 to 1981, following Dick Smith. He was defeated in 1981 by Mike Harris.

Bolan was born in North Bay to the late Sgt. M.M. Bolan and Helen Maille, and raised in Cobalt.

He graduated from Assumption College, Windsor, and Osgoode Hall Law School, and was called to the bar in 1960.

Following a distinguished career in law, he was appointed to the Bench in 1981, serving on the District Court of Ontario and the Ontario Superior Court of Justice. Bolan also served his community as a trustee on the Widdifield Board of Education, the Nipissing Board of Education, and as an alderman for the City of North Bay.

He was also involved with the Algonquin Regiment for many years, serving as a member of its Senate, as Honorary Lieut.-Colonel and Honorary Colonel. Mike never forgot his roots. He was a self-described “ p’tit colon” from Cobalt, and was proud of having worked in the mines as a young man. A defining characteristic of his political and legal career was his belief in the common good, and treating everyone fairly and with respect. Mike was happiest when out walking in the woods or paddling a canoe. He was also a natural storyteller and painted vivid pictures about what it was like to come of age in the Tri-town area.

"Our families were friends," Nipissing MPP Vice Fedeli remembers.

"I have nothing bu the highest regard for Justice Bolan first as a politician...the thoughtful work that he did, but mostly in a role we shared as Honourary Colonels of the Algonquin Regiment. This was his real pride and joy."

North Bay Mayor Al McDonald, a former MPP himself told BayToday "Michael Bolan served his city and Province with integrity. His leadership was appreciated and will be missed."

A visitation will be held on Friday, October 28 2016 from 2-4 pm and 7-9pm at McGuinty Funeral Home, 591 Cassells Street in North Bay. A funeral service will follow on Saturday, October 29, 2016 at 11 a.m. at Calvin Presbyterian Church, 401 First Ave West in North Bay.

In lieu of flowers, sympathy can be expressed through donations to the North Bay Regional Health Centre or the Alzheimer’s Society of Canada.

Online condolences may be made at www.mcguintyfuneralhome.com.


Jeff Turl

About the Author: Jeff Turl

Jeff is a veteran of the news biz. He's spent a lengthy career in TV, radio, print and online, covering both news and sports. He enjoys free time riding motorcycles and spoiling grandchildren.
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