Donald Rufe Bolt

ALBIN, BOLT, RECUPERO

Posted By: Volunteer Paul French
Date: 5/13/2007 at 17:17:27

Donald Rufe Bolt (Donnie) was born on February 6, 1932 in Covina, California. He lived his early life in Covina with his mother, sister, and grandmother. When Donnie was just a youngster he demonstrated a keen interest in flying. He loved to fly the model airplanes in the high school yard across the street from his home. In his room he suspended model airplanes from the ceiling.

Donnie graduated from Covina High School in 1950. Following graduation, he joined the U.S. Navy serving on board the U.S.S. Toledo with his Uncle Earl Clark. After this service he married Kathleen Albin. They had two sons: Steven and Michael. Donnie later married Carol Recupero and they had one daughter, Cheryl Ann.

He made a career of flying, including service with these airlines: Blatz of Glendale and United Airlines in the Congo out of Leopoldville. About 1965 or 1966 he flew for Ethiopian and T.W.A. Airlines in Africa and lived in Addis Abba. His work also included Aerojet General and instructing at Bracket Field. In about 1968 he returned to the United States from Africa and joined the Howard Hughes Company, flying the executive jet planes. One day his mother asked him why he liked flying and he responded that it was so peaceful and calm up there.

Donnie tried to make life as comfortable and happy as possible for his family. He loved them very much. His beautiful personality was a source of enjoyment to his family and friends throughout his lifetime and in their continuing memories of him.

Source: transcription contained in “Family History” of the Barker, Sherod, and Forbes families and descendants compiled by Bernadine Forbes Clark, December 1980.