Arolyn Ruth Bolton Lake

Arolyn Ruth Bolton Lake was a loving and independent mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, daughter, cousin, and friend. An original and deep thinker, Lyn was known among her loved ones for creating various forms of art using media such as stained glass, paper and ink, and watercolors. She loved the outdoors, gardening, innovative ideas, and was an extensive reader and lifelong learner. She integrated her passions and beliefs about movement, fitness and mindfulness into her daily life and continued sharing her wisdom with family and friends, and expressing this joy through yoga, walks in the woods and by the ocean, and through dance.

Lyn was one of the earliest female graduates of the Physical Education program at Springfield College where she thrived on and embraced the ideals of spirit, mind, and body. She went on to complete a Master’s Degree in Counseling from the University of Southern Maine. She devoted her energies and professional passions to promoting wellness, fitness, and overall well-being for all ages. She conceptualized and implemented the first Physical Education program at Jordan Small School in Raymond, Maine, where she taught for over 20 years. She delighted in nurturing her students’ development and incorporating their evolving fitness knowledge for personal growth. Lyn also expanded her fitness instruction to adults in the Harrison Recreational Program through her Creative Connections classes. She enjoyed many friendships during her retirement, especially through her work at Dansk in North Conway, and around Bridgton, where she happily resided for many years. Lyn had recently relocated to Hamden, Connecticut, to be closer to family, and treasured many new relationships with her congregate housing co-residents.

On August 3, Arolyn passed peacefully at home surrounded by her loved ones. Lyn was predeceased by her parents, Edward and Ruth Whitaker Bolton. She is deeply missed by her sister, Beverly; daughters, Deanne and Sharon; their spouses, Bruce and Ben; her grandchildren, Emilie, Tyler, Heath, and Rylee; her nephews Jack, Jim, and Jeff and their families; and beloved family members including Kathy, Donna, Judy, and Tijani; and others who are so dear but too numerous to list. A small Celebration of Life will be held in January 2026. Memorial contributions in Arolyn’s honor may be made to your local food bank or hospice program, or to Springfield College’s scholarship programs for students majoring in Physical Education. To leave her family a condolence, see obituary at www.beecherandbennett.com.