Gloria Esther (Rivera) Bolstad passed away January 17, 2015 at the Arbors at Lakewood, Springfield, MO. Born June 5, 1924, Gloria was raised in Cayey, Puerto Rico, graduated from High School and moved to San Juan Puerto Rico where she met Army Sergeant Harold Bolstad. They married September 8, 1942. In 1944 Harold was transferred to another location during WWII. Separated by the war, Gloria and her infant son moved to Minneapolis, Minnesota. Ultimately with a career in the Army as well as a second career with Civil Service the Bolstad’s moved to different residences 25 times. Sometimes the boxes never got unpacked before it was time to move again. Upon retirement, they located to San Antonio, Texas. In 1995 they relocated to Springfield to be closer to family. Gloria was preceded in death by her husband, Harold, in March 1998, her father Teofilo Rivera and her mother Fermina Rivera. Gloria is survived by her son, Vernon Bolstad and wife Marsha of Springfield, Missouri. Also surviving are grandchildren Andrea and husband John Richmond of Kansas City, MO, Lance and wife Jane of Springfield along with great-grandchildren Jackson and Peyton also of Kansas City, MO. Gloria will be missed by the many friends that she and Harold developed from the many countries and states in which they lived.

The family would like to express their gratitude to the wonderful staff at Integrity Home Care, the Arbors at Lakewood, and Intrepid Hospice. You have all made a difference in the quality of life for Gloria.

Funeral service for Gloria will be held at 2 p.m. Monday, January 26, 2015 in Wesley United Methodist Church with Rev. Bill Moore & Rev. Scott Bailey-Kirk officiating. Visitation will begin at 1 p.m. prior to the service in the church.

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