Carol Mildred Bolden

It is with deep sorrow that we announce that Carol Mildred Bolden left us unexpectedly at her home in Sheboygan, Wisconsin, on October 9, 2024 to be with her Lord and Savior. She was born on September 5, 1941, in Plainfield, Wisconsin, Carol graduated from TriCounty High School in 1960. She moved to Milwaukee where she met and married the love of her life, Royal Lee Bolden, on June 22, 1963. She was a cherished mother, grandmother, great grandmother, aunt, and friend.

Shortly after being married Carol and Roy moved to West Bend, WI where they started their family together. After relocating in several different areas they settled in Clintonville, WI for 8 years, They then moved to Lansing, MI where they were house parents for the VFW National Home. In 1992, Carol and Royal moved to Sheboygan, where they dedicated their lives to working at the Deland Receiving Home. During their time there, they lovingly parented 608 children, making a lasting impact on many lives. In 2000, they retired together to Rhinelander, settling on the Wisconsin River, where they could enjoy their love of the outdoors. Everywhere she went she made friends quickly and became involved in the community. 

Carol was an avid reader, having read more than 13,000 books throughout her life. She enjoyed watching Jeopardy and often answered the questions before they were fully asked, showcasing her quick wit and vast knowledge. Carol also had a passion for crocheting and baking, with food being her love language. Above all else, she loved serving her family, creating special meals and memories. She had a playful spirit, never letting anyone cheat at cribbage, ensuring that games were fair and filled with laughter.

She is survived by her three children; James (Laura) Bolden, Joseph (Ann) Bolden and Lori (Bill) Schuerman. Her beloved grandchildren; Austin (Emily) Bolden, Tanner Bolden, Hannah Bolden, Holly (Eric) Bartlein, Patrick Bolden, Lance Bolden, Chase Bolden, Michael (Elise) Schuerman, Claire Schuerman, Matthew (Jordan) Schuerman, and Lt. Daniel Schuerman. Carol also leaves behind nine great-grandchildren who brought her immense joy; Maya Ann Bolden, Charlotte Caroline Bartlein, Gabriel, Nathan, Sadie, Jude, Desmond Schuerman, and Claire’s two adopted children. She also leaves behind Brother-In-Law Harold Manthey, Sister-In-Law Carol Pickhardt and numerous nieces, nephews, family, friends and her beloved cat Tigger and dog Chili.

Carol was preceded in death by her devoted husband of 56 years, Royal Lee Bolden; her parents, Arthur and Marguerite Pickhardt; and her siblings, Lawrence Pickhardt, Robert Pickhardt, Sharon Dupler, and Kathy Manthey.

Memorial service will be held at 11:00am on October 26th, 2024 at the Sheboygan Evangelical Free Church. Visitation will be at 9:30am until the time of service. A memorial fund will be established in Carol’s name.

Carol’s legacy of love and kindness will forever be cherished by all who knew her. Carol’s family would like to express their sincerest gratitude for the wonderful help and care provided by all of the First Responders, EMS, Orange Cross, Sheriff’s Department, 911 Emergency Dispatch and the Emergency Room Personnel at St Nick’s Hospital.