Bergen Man's Driving Force Was To Change Lives For The Better

RIDGEWOOD, NJ — David Bolger made it his life's goal to give back more than he received. And he did.

Bolger, 86, a village native and philanthropist, died Dec. 29.

Bolger's driving force was to change lives for the better and to make the world a better place, his obituary states. Philanthropy was his hobby. He took "great pride in his community and communities around the world," his obituary states.

He donated millions of dollars to the city of Fayette, Iowa and Upper Iowa University. His endeavors earned him the title of "Honorary Mayor," and he had a bridge and road, Bolger Drive, named after him in Fayette, The Courier reported.

He also spent years restructuring the university's debt and restoring its fiscal health.

"He was always doing something for us," former Fayette mayor Roy Karlson said in the report. "We've done a lot lot recognize him, but not as much as he did for us."

Bolger helped Fayette make money off of properties he invested in, and managed for, the city, which used the profits to buy things like police cars and an ambulance, according to the report.

Bolger was born Aug. 12, 1932 in Alliquippa. Pa. He attended Northfield Mount Herman Preparatory School and was graduated from the Univeristy of Pittsburgh in 1954.

His parents, John and Coby, immigrated to the United States from the Netherlands. He believed in the American Dream, and never forget where he came from.

He was a U.S. Air Force veteran and retired from service as a first lieutenant. He believed in the American Dream and donated more than 14 flags and flagpoles throughout his life.

Bolger began his career in the steel mills of Pennsylvania. He then became an associate at various firms, included working with Thomas Mellon Evans, H.K. Porter & Co., Broadstone Realty, and New York Securities Co. Inc., before founding Bolger & Co. Inc., in 1966.

Bolger began his career in the steel mills ofPennsylvania, then became an associate at various firms, included working with Thomas Mellon Evans, H.K. Porter & Co., Broadstone Realty, and New YorkSecurities Co., Inc., before founding Bolger & Co., Inc., in 1966.

He was predeceased by his parents and brother, William.

He is survived by his twin sister, Barbara Collett; brother Daniel, and sister Betty; children Betsie, John, and J.T.; grandchildren, A.J., Kaylee, Aidan, Theo, Jack, and Ellie; and two ex-wives, Barbara and Lois.

Donations in his name may be made to West Bergen Mental Health, The Valley Hospital, and The Women’s Club of Ridgewood.

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