Born Feb. 2, 1938, Edward Martin Bolton grew up in Haines, moved to Juneau where he graduated from high school, then went on to attend Oregon Technical Institute in Klamath Falls where he received a degree in automotive body and fender. The joke in Juneau every summer after that was, “Whose body on what fender?”
He met Sharon, his wife of 40 years, in Juneau in 1958, but they lost track of each other until 1981 when they reconnected, and he met his daughter, Denise, for the first time.
Edward moved to Skagway in 1963, worked as a police officer, performed as Dangerous Dan in the Days of ‘98 productions and worked at White Pass for over 30 years before retiring in 2001. He was also a past exalted ruler and lifetime member of the Elks. He was a true artist (and perfectionist), often working with leather, woodcarving, knife-making, gun smithing and re-wrapping fishing rods.
Edward was preceded in death by his mother Laura Bolton, stepfather Ray Bolton, brother Bobby, and sister, Leona. He is survived by his wife Sharon Bolton, daughter Denise (Mike) Welch, granddaughter Samantha Welch, and countless close friends who were like family.
Edward died in Skagway on May 19, at home with all of his friends and family around him, as per his wishes. A celebration of life will be held in late July, with details announced at a later date.
