MEMORIAL-JAMES D. BOLIN

104th Regular Session Introduced by Chapin Rose

The bill memorializes Jim Bolin for his community leadership and business impact in Casey, honoring his life and expressing condolences to his family.

Resolution Adopted

Summary of SR 608 (104th General Assembly, Illinois) – Memorial-James D. Bolin

Type and Purpose

This is a Senate Resolution (SR) memorializing and mourning the death of James Dean "Jim" Bolin of Casey, Illinois, who passed away on January 27, 2026.
The resolution serves to honor Bolin’s life, community contributions, and legacy, and to express condolences to his family and friends.

Main Purpose and Intent

Publicly recognize Jim Bolin’s impact on his community through his work, leadership, and philanthropy.
Acknowledge his role in local economic and community development, notably his business leadership with Bolin Enterprises, Inc., and his initiative to attract visitors to Casey (e.g., “Big Things in A Small Town” and roadside attractions such as the World’s Largest Wind Chime, Rocking Chair, and Mailbox).
Convey the Senate’s sympathies and provide a formal record of respect for Bolin’s family.

Key Provisions and Content

The resolution provides a narrative of Bolin’s life, including:
Birth: September 23, 1964, in Terre Haute, Indiana.
Education: Casey High School graduate (1982).
Career: Carpenter by trade; co-owner/vice president of Bolin Enterprises, Inc., expanding a family business to employ about 250 people nationally.
Community leadership: Founder/advocate of “Big Things in A Small Town,” promoting Casey through attractions.
Faith and service: Active member of Moriah Church in Casey; held various leadership roles within the community.
Family: Married to Diane Bolin for 40 years; survived by spouse, children (Jessica Prater and Drew Bolin), grandchildren, and extended family.
Formal statements of sympathy and a commitment to presenting a copy of the resolution to Bolin’s family.

Who or What Is Affected

Primarily the memory and recognition by the Illinois Senate; no legal or regulatory changes, funding, or administrative actions are triggered.
The resolution serves as a ceremonial honor and historical record for public archives and recognition of Bolin’s contributions to Casey and Illinois.

Procedural and Timeline Aspects

The resolution is introduced by the Illinois Senate with a co-sponsor (Chapin Rose).
It follows the standard Senate memorial resolution format, including: biographical details, statements of condolence, and a final admonition to present a copy to the family.
No fiscal implications or legislative changes are associated; it is a ceremonial act.

Sponsor

Co-sponsor: Senator Chapin Rose.

Notable Details

The bill does not modify statutes or create programs; it is a formal expression of sorrow and tribute from the Illinois Senate.