Mr. John Joseph Bolos

John Joseph Bolos, a generous spirit, loving husband and father, tireless philanthropist, devoted businessman, and a beacon of hope to many, passed away on July 6, 2023. Born in Utica, NY, on August 8, 1954, to Anthony and Sadie Bolos, he left an indelible mark on countless lives through his philanthropy and personal counsel. John's business acumen, honed at Utica College and in his role as a manager at Chicago Markets, laid the groundwork for his first successful venture, Big Apple Music, a family-run business he launched with his siblings in 1979. He later took interest in the real estate market as well as helping others set-up their business ventures. Yet his entrepreneurial success was equally matched by his charitable endeavors: John's compassion knew no bounds. John's compassion extended particularly to those overlooked by society — those down on their luck or struggling with drug addiction. To this end, he founded Sadie's Hope, named in honor of his mother, a shelter for women in Columbia, SC, followed by a similar establishment for men. John dedicated his personal resources to these shelters, providing pastoral care and counseling to help residents overcome addiction and hardship through faith. He also enthusiastically supported his brother David and sister-in-law Debbie's children's orphanage in Peru, New Hope, generously contributing both time and financial support to this noble cause. John's philanthropy was not confined to monetary donations. He was known to devote his personal time to counsel and aid anyone he met in need, be they an auto mechanic, house painter, or anyone else who might cross his path. His was a heart that beat for others, a spirit that offered hope and faith. As a husband and father, John was a source of unwavering support and joy for his wife and children. His home was often filled with the melodies of his cheerful whistling and the timeless tunes of The Beatles, songs that now echo with cherished memories. John was never too busy for his family and friends, always answering his phone no matter the hour or situation. His voice on the phone became a sanctuary for his family, a source of soothing comfort that eased worries and healed emotional wounds. He provided guidance, shared wisdom, and often lightened life's complexities with his unique humor. John's legacy thrives in his wife and children, their lives profoundly shaped by his generous love, compassion, and unbounded spirit. The lessons he imparted and the love he shared continue to guide them, a testament to the extraordinary husband and father he was. John is survived by his loving wife, Renee; their children, John Bolos (Angela Bolos), Michael Bolos (Sylvain Lamoureux), Joanne Bolos Thomas (Stephen Thomas), Laura Bolos (Johnny Petillo), Samuel Bolos; his grandchildren, Emma Bolos, Noah Bolos, Elijiah Thomas, Jaxson Thomas, Eloise Petillo and Henry Petillo; his siblings David Bolos (Debbie Bolos), Mark Bolos (Tina Bolos), Peter Bolos (Sandra Bolos), and Theresa Bolos; and his empathetic nature guided him and Renee to expand their family by adopting two more children, Cassandra Held and Kaley Held. His life serves as a testament to the profound impact one person can have when driven by love and faith. A Memorial Service will be held Sunday, August 20, 2023 at 2:00 p.m. at Mohawk Valley Church, 9427 Maynard Drive, Marcy. Donations in lieu of flowers may be made to Sadie's Hope (https://sadieshope.org/) or New Hope Peru (https://newhopeperu.org/), perpetuating John's legacy of service.

Mr. John Joseph Bolos

August 8, 1954 - July 6, 2023