Donald Bolinger

Donald Russell Bolinger, 82, of California, Mo., passed away on Wednesday, May 4, 2011, at his residence. He was born May 28, 1928, in Moniteau County, the son of Ward Bolinger and Velma (Shores) Bolinger whom preceded him in death. Don was a 1945 graduate of California High School. He was united in marriage on May 1, 1948, in Kansas City, Mo., to Bonnie Crane who survives of the home. He was a member of Flag Springs Baptist Church where he served as President of the Cemetery Association for many years and held many offices. Don raised and showed Tennessee Walking Horses. He helped organize the Midwest Tennessee Walking Horse Trainers Association and judged the 1970 World Championships for Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration. Don owned and operated Versailles Livestock Auction that has been a family operation for many years. He is survived by two sons, Kent Bolinger and wife Louisa, Greg Bolinger and wife Jeanne; four daughters, Connie Bolinger, Wanda Daugherity, Vickie Miller and Margie Bolinger; 16 grandchildren; 20 great- grandchildren and one dog, Penny. He was preceded in death by one son in-law ,Danny Miller. Funeral services will be Monday, May 9, 2011, at 10:00 a.m. at the California First Baptist Church Sanctuary. Officiating will be Pastor Ken Chapman. Burial will be in the Flag Springs Cemetery. Visitation will be Sunday, May 8, 2011, at the California First Baptist Church Family Life Center from 4:00-7:00 p.m. Memorials are suggested to Flag Springs Cemetery Association, Hospice Compassus or American Heart Association c/o Bowlin-Cantriel Funeral Services, 100 S. Oak St., California, MO 65018. Arrangements are under the direction of Bowlin-Cantriel Funeral Services, California, Mo.