John V. "Johnnie" Bolin

John V. "Johnnie" Bolin, a beloved figure in the music world and a cherished family man, passed away peacefully at his home in Sioux City on September 5, 2024.

A service dedicated to honoring John's life will be held at 2:00 P.M. Saturday, September 14, 2024, at the Sioux City Orpheum Theatre. Visitation with the family will begin at 12:00 P.M. until service time.  Those wishing to join the service virtually may do so by following the link below.  Burial will be at Calvary Cemetery.

Born on August 17, 1954, in Sioux, Iowa, the son of Richard and Barbara Bolin, Johnnie's life was a vibrant tapestry woven with threads of music, laughter, and love. He graduated from Central High School, laying the foundation for a journey that would flourish through creativity and connection.

Johnnie's musical journey took him far and wide. He pursued a successful career as a musician, performing nationally and internationally alongside the renowned RCA recording artist Richard T. Bear. His talent knew no bounds, as he shared the stage with iconic bands, including Black Oak Arkansas, DVC, Chill Factor, Dare Force and tons of local bands including Bolin’s Alley and the Penetrators. Johnnie was asked to join his brother, Tommy Bolin, for the September 1976 Tour to promote Private Eyes. In 1995, Johnnie became principal in the Tommy Bolin Archives, and the Tommy Bolin Fest began in the 1990’s in Denver, CO, and continued in Sioux City in 1999, where it remains a strong event honoring music today. Bobby, Johnnie’s son, will continue this tradition. Johnnie’s contributions to music were matched only by his infectious humor, which had the power to uplift the spirits of everyone he met throughout his travels around the world.

When not on tour, Johnnie found joy in driving around in his beloved convertible, embracing the freedom of the open road. Johnnie's proudest accomplishments, however, were not confined to his musical career. He deeply loved his family, particularly his close love, Terri Cowell, and their beloved son, Bobby (Jennifer) Bolin. Johnnie was a devoted grandfather, creating cherished memories with Sawyer, Alayna, Bobby Jr., and Tommy Bolin, who brought immense joy to his life.

He was preceded in death by his brother Tommy Bolin, his parents Richard and Barbara Bolin, and his brother Rick "Pudge" Bolin. Their spirits, along with Johnnie's, form a constellation of love and talent that continues to shine brightly.

As we bid farewell to Johnnie Bolin, we remember a kind-hearted man whose laughter resonated through the air and whose music will forever echo in our hearts. His legacy of love, humor, and artistry will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know him.

In Lieu of Flowers, the family requests that memorials be sent to the Siouxland Community Foundation, 4425 Singing Hills Blvd. Suite 100 Sioux City, IA 51106 to help support the Bolin Family Scholarship, given each year to a local Sioux City drummer or musician as part of the Kind World Foundation Scholarship Program or the Carmelite Nuns, 2901 S. Cecelia St. Sioux City, IA 51106.