Kenneth A. Bollam

Kenneth A. Bollam (Cdr. US Navy Retired), aged 87, passed away peacefully on May 6, 2023. He was a distinguished veteran and graduate of St. Joseph High School and John Carroll University. Ken was a passionate coach, dedicating many years to coaching CYO, high school, and college-level softball and basketball teams. He was also a respected softball umpire and basketball referee for over 40 years.

Ken had a deep love for music, serving as a cantor and choir member at St. Noel Catholic Church. He cherished his role as a husband to his devoted wife of 61 years, Paula (nee Fawcett), and as a father to his son Russell and daughters Cathleen (Daniel) Coyne and Diann (Vincent) Miller. He is also survived by his 6 grandchildren, Valleri, Erin, Liam, Sean, Eamon, and Lauryn, as well as two great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents Henry and Agnes (nee Katalinas) and his sister Bonnie Weiland.

For most of his life Ken led a one-man crusade against the cult of comfort.  Relentlessly working two or more jobs and side hustles, he used his extra funds to support the under privileged, those down on their luck, and friends needing a helping hand. He always loved the underdog.  Despite his incredible work ethic, Ken almost never missed a grandchild’s sporting event and miraculously still found time for singing, jail ministry, clothing drives, his nightly Rosary, epic family vacations and Christmas toys for struggling families.  He was also a proud member of the Catholic War Veterans (John Paul II post).

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Padre Pio Academy (Lakewood, OH) and Euclid Animal Shelter.

Family will receive friends to pay tribute to and celebrate the life of Ken at THE DeJOHN-FLYNN-MYLOTT FUNERAL HOME OF WILLOUGHBY HILLS, 28890 CHARDON ROAD (between Bishop Rd. and Rt. 91) Wednesday, May 10, 2023, from 4-8 PM.

Mass of Christian Burial Thursday, May 11, 2023, at St. Noel Catholic Church, 35200 Chardon Rd, Willoughby Hills, OH 44094 at 11 AM.

A Private Burial with Military Honors will be held at Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery.