Obituary of Archie M Bolster

Archie M. Bolster, aged 87, passed away on February 21, 2021 in Arlington, Virginia, surrounded by family. 

The son of Horace and Ella Bolster, Archie spent his early years in Bozeman, Montana. He moved to Iran in 1945 when his father was posted at the embassy in Tehran and later attended high school in the Netherlands. These experiences piqued his interest in international work.

Archie studied Foreign Affairs in the University of Virginia’s ROTC program, where he was a member of Phi Beta Kappa and had the honor of living on the Lawn. He later earned a Master’s degree at the University of Wisconsin.

Following three years as an officer on the Destroyer USS John R. Pierce, Archie joined the Foreign Service. Fluent in four languages, his overseas posts included Cambodia, India, Iran, the Netherlands, and three years as Consul General in Antwerp, Belgium.  All told, he served his country for more than 60 years.

Archie’s intelligence, gentle demeanor, warm smile, and generosity attracted many lifelong friends. A wonderful father and devoted husband, he was predeceased by his brother, Robert, and leaves behind his wife, Ann; daughter, Amy; sons, Christopher and Matthew; and eight grandchildren.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Nature Conservancy or the Southern Poverty Law Center.

A graveside service is being planned for Arlington National Cemetery; however, the timing is not currently known.  Details will be posted here when available.