2011 Assembly Joint Resolution 104
ENROLLED JOINT RESOLUTION
Relating to: the life and public service of Richard (Dick) Bolender.
Whereas, Richard “Dick" Bolender was born on January 12, 1943, in South Milwaukee, and died on December 11, 2011, in Oak Creek at the age of 68; and
Whereas, Dick was a lifelong resident of Milwaukee County, graduating from South Milwaukee High School and then the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, and working almost every day on his farm, tending to his horses and cows on one of the few remaining farms in the area; and
Whereas, Dick enlisted in the U.S. Air Force Reserves upon graduating from UW-Whitewater, and was stationed close to home at the 440th in Milwaukee, and in 1970 began his 36-year career with American Family; and
Whereas, Dick served the city of Oak Creek as an elected official for nearly a decade, first as alderman of the 4th District, serving from 2002 to 2003, and then as mayor for three terms from 2003 to 2011; and
Whereas, during his tenure as mayor of Oak Creek, Dick was instrumental in many redevelopment projects, including the 85-acre former Delphi site, opening the lakefront area for public access, facilitating Bucyrus International headquarters (now Caterpillar) moving to Oak Creek, and recruiting redevelopment along South Howell Avenue which included Woodman's grocery store; and
Whereas, Dick was well respected as an honest public servant and was always accessible to the community, holding regular “meet the mayor" sessions at city hall and the countless meetings in living rooms of Oak Creek residents; and
Whereas, Dick had announced his retirement, wanting to spend more time with his family, just one week before his untimely passing; and
Whereas, Dick was a devoted husband and friend to Christine, father to Michael and Lisa, and grandfather to Brittany, Cindy, Brianna, Taylor, Robby, and Madison; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the
assembly, the senate concurring, That the members of the Wisconsin legislature commend the distinguished career and public service of Richard “Dick" Bolender, express their sorrow at his death, and extend their condolences to his family and friends; and, be it further
Resolved, That the assembly chief clerk shall provide copies of this resolution to Dick Bolender's widow, Christine Bolender; his son, Michael Bolender; and his daughter, Lisa Reid.
