Don Bolin

Minister of Music

On staff since 2000

dbolin@lakesidecanton.com

Don Bolin has been Minister of Music at Lakeside since 2000. He has been in the music ministry for... well.... let's just say many years. He has served churches in Indiana, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Illinois, and Texas. 

Don is from West Frankfort, IL., and the people from that area make sure others know that it is Southern Illinois. But it was an East Texas pastor who encouraged him to come to Texas and attend Howard Payne University. 

He and his wife, Jeanne, have been married for... well.... let's just say many years. They have 5 sons, 3 daughters, one daughter-in-law, one son-in-law, and four grandchildren. Don says "I'm a childrenaire!" There are few quite moments around their home, but their motto has been "Bless this house Lord with joyful noise!" Before they all decided to grow up, the family sang together as "The Bolin Family Singers." 

Although a man of few words, he is known for his unique sayings: "What an opportunity!" "If it was easy, anyone could do it." "There are two rules: 1. Do what is right. 2. Have a great time!" "Anybody can do it when they feel good."

Don's philosophy of music is, "We don't sing songs because they are new. We don't sing songs because they are old. We sing songs because they are great!" 

His favorite TV show is the Andy Griffith show and he loves the episode when Barney tries to join the choir. "I have had a few "Barneys" in my choir throughout the years. "He" has always been welcomed! I believe it is not the musical skill that is the most important, but the spirit of an individual. I have had the privilege to work with incredible people!"

It is no surprise that choir rehearsal ends every week with a rendition of Roy Rogers' "Happy Trails to You...Till We Meet Again!"