Velva Mae Bollinger, 100, of Marion, passed away at 2:28 pm on Saturday, February 7, 2026, at Colonial Oaks Health & Rehabilitation Center in Marion. She was born in Albion, Indiana, on December 18, 1925, to George B. and Martha E. (Bauman) Hathaway. On August 3, 1956, she married the love of her life, Harry R. Bollinger.
Velva graduated from Albion High School and later attended Marion College and Ball State University where she completed her Masters Degree in Education. She devoted many years to teaching within the Alexandria School Corporation and Fort Wayne Community School System before retiring. A woman of strong faith, she was a member of the Wesleyan Church and was also active in the Indiana Retired Teachers Association and Gideons International.
Velva enjoyed cross-stitching, attending sporting events, traveling throughout the United States and abroad, and spending winters in Florida with fellow “snowbirds.” She loved board games, cherished time with her family, and found great joy in teaching throughout her life.
She is survived by her daughter, Beth A. (Paul) Kidd of Grand Rapids, MI; her son, Bradley A. (Carmen) Bollinger of Wyoming, MI; her grandchildren, Sarah Kidd, Michelle (Zach) Schab, Leanna (Brett) Bost, Joel (Samantha) Bollinger, David (Emily) Bollinger, and Alexis Bollinger; and her 3 great-grandchildren.
Velva was preceded in death by her husband, Harry R. Bollinger Jr.; her parents, George and Martha Hathaway; her sister, Imogene Poyser; and her brothers, Ronald (Becky) Hathaway and Emil Hathaway.
The family will receive visitors from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm on Saturday, February 14, 2026, at Needham-Storey-Wampner Funeral & Cremation Service, North Chapel, 1341 N. Baldwin Ave., Marion, IN
A service celebrating Velva’s life will begin immediately following visitation at 2:00 pm, with Pastor Dan Van Cise officiating. Burial will take place at a later date at Covington Memorial Gardens in Fort Wayne.
Memories and condolences may be shared online at www.nswcares.com.
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