Michael “Mike” Bolten, 73, passed away on April 9th, 2023, at home surrounded by loved ones. Mike was born on June 23, 1949, to his parents Gilbert and Winifred Bolten in Des Moines, Iowa.
Mike grew up on the east side of Des Moines. He attended Visitation Catholic School and Tech High School. At Tech, he enjoyed playing and lettering in football and met the love of his life Madelena (Quijano). They graduated in 1968 and married on September 28, 1968. Mike enlisted and served in the Air Force until he was discharged for an injury. He then went to work at Armstrong Tire (Titan) for 32 yrs. where he was heavily and proudly involved, as an officer, of Local Union #164. Mike wrapped up his work career retiring from Polk County Jail. His passion for the union community never stopped, as he was well known and respected for. Mike also was very dedicated to the new life he created through sobriety. He started attending AA meetings and kept his sobriety from August 28th, 1992, until his death. He not only created the best life for himself but has helped many others in the program find theirs as well. Mike also had a love for youth sports. He was very involved with youth athletics. He was a great mentor to lots of kids, his own children, and grandchildren.
Mike was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Joe (Sandie) Bolten, James Bolten, sisters Mary (Ed) Ramirez, and Susan (Greg) Beye. He is survived by his wife, sons Ted (Elizabeth) Bolten, Chris (Jonell) Bolten, Keith (Lindsey) Bolten, daughter Stephanie (Brad Moriarty) Rivera, 12 grandchildren, his brother Richard (Kathy) Bolten and immense family.
Saturday, April 22nd, 2023, A visitation will begin at 10:00 AM with funeral services immediately following at 11:00 AM at Our Lady of The Americas Catholic Church, 1271 E 9th St., Des Moines, Iowa