Paul F. Bolder, Sr.

Paul Fredrick Bolder, age 64, passed away peacefully on December 14, 2024, surrounded by loved ones. He showed incredible strength and grace until the end. Born on October 29, 1960, in Kansas City, Mo. Paul was a dedicated father, husband, brother, and friend. Paul was the sixth of seven children born to Edith Dickens Bolder and Ledrue Golden Bolder. Paul was born and raised a Catholic; he was an altar boy at Annunciation and an usher at Our Lady of Perpetual Help.  Paul graduated from Central High School in 1978. He was united in marriage to the love of his life, Gretchen Haley Bolder, on December 30, 1982.  Paul and Gretchen were married for forty-two years and together for forty-four.

Paul was a highly respected general contractor who firmly believed in being the boss and doing a job he was proud of. He was the owner of “Paul’s Commercial & Residential Remodeling”.  Paul was always quick to let people know that he started his contact work at 12 when he volunteered at Metropolitan Lutheran Ministries to help replace windows for low-income senior citizens.  From those humble beginnings, he built a business that included adding two rooms to his parents’ home, building homes, and repairing the ceiling of the Leavenworth Prison. Paul was a jack-of-all-trades and could handle any repair or issue that came his way. His work not only improved the lives of his clients but also contributed to the beauty and functionality of his community. Paul worked with the Missouri Highway Department and the Associated Wholesale Grocers of Kansas City, Kansas, for several years. Paul also delivered the Kansas City Call newspaper for many years.

Paul’s greatest joy was his family. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend. His friends and neighbors describe him as a “Good Dude.” He lived for his family. Paul lived on Norton his entire life and was a legend in the community. He dedicated his life to caring for his loving wife, children, mother, and father. A lifelong fishing enthusiast, Paul found peace and happiness on the water fishing. Paul was also a diehard Kansas City Chiefs fan and spent Sundays watching games with his grandchildren. Paul leaves behind a legacy of a warm heart and a welcoming spirit. He was the driving force behind the annual neighborhood block party, bringing neighbors together for food, laughter, birthday celebrations, and lasting memories. His influence in the community was profound, and his absence leaves a void that will be deeply felt.

Paul was predeceased by his father and mother, Ledrue and Edith Bolder, and siblings Dorothy Robinson and George Ellis. Paul leaves to cherish his loving memory his wife, Gretchen Bolder; son, Paul Bolder II; daughter, Bridget Bolder; six grandchildren: Paul Bolder III, Devin Bolder, Golden Bolder, Daniel Bolder, Mia Bolder, Brighton Bolder; four siblings; Dazzie McKelvy (Michael), Victoria Lyons (Anthony), Ledrue Bolder Jr., Edward Bolder, many nieces and nephews; and a host of loving relatives and friends. The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude for the love, support, and prayers they have received during this difficult time.

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith” Timothy 4:7