"Merle ("Mrs. Bolin" to me) was my childhood piano teacher for several years. She was one of the nicest, kindest people I knew. She really did make the world a better place, as they say. Thank you, Merle, for your kindness and unending patience with me, a student who didn't do her practicing! I will never forget you. "
In loving memory of
Merle A. Bolin
August 28, 1929 - January 14, 2017
Funeral services for Merle A. Bolin, of Rochester will be at 11:00am on Thursday, January 19, 2017 at Bethel Lutheran Church. Burial will be at Oakwood Cemetery.
Merle Arlene Hanson was born in Albert Lea, MN to Chris and Mabel (Fox) Hanson. She died on January 14, 2017 at St. Marys Hospital.
Merle was baptized at Trinity Lutheran Church and confirmed at Salem Lutheran Church in Albert Lea. She graduated from Albert Lea High School and St. Olaf College in Northfield. She married Charles W. Bolin and they lived in Mapleton, Hollandale and Pemberton before moving to Rochester. She was an active member of Bethel Lutheran Church involved with VBS and choir. Merle was a dog lover. She enjoyed reading, gardening, music and baking.
Survivors include her two daughters, Martha (Kevin) Kenne of Dexter and Mari (Kevin) Graner of Oronoco; one son, Phil Bolin of Rochester; eight grandchildren; Abby (Andy), Emma (Mike), Dean (Kristen), Michael, Missy (Matt), Laura (David), KC (Anna), and Tim (Becca), and six great grandchildren; Aubree, Evy, Louisella, Abe, Eli, and Kate. She was looking forward to three new great grandchildren from the families of Emma, Laura, and Dean in 2017. She is also survived by her sister, Marion Sorenson of Burnsville. She was preceded in death by her parents and spouse. The family would like to say thank you to Kristy, Mara and Katie from St. Marys Mary Brigh Unit B for their wonderful care for Merle.
Memorials are suggested to the family.
Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Home 5421 Royal Place NW Rochester, MN 55901
www.ranfranzandvinefh.com
Tributes
"Martha, we're sorry for the loss of your mom, and hope she has everlasting peace.Love; Chris and Scott"
""Mrs. Bolin"--as I always knew her--was my piano teacher for 8 years. I was saddened to hear of her passing and want to express my condolences to her family. I still sit down to play the piano occasionally and am grateful for the skills she taught me. I remember the many toys that decorated her piano. Most importantly, Mrs. Bolin was ever kind and encouraging, a teacher who helped me develop confidence in myself and my potential. She taught me that if I practiced I could improve, and that principle has helped me in many areas of life."