Heartfelt & Personal

Barbara K. (Bolton) Weidner, known lovingly as Barb, passed away on May 28, 2026, at Otterbein Franklin Seniorlife Community in Franklin, Indiana. She was 90 years old.

Barb was born on February 1, 1936, in Waynesboro, Pennsylvania, to the late John Merriott Bolton and Helen Margaret (Simpson) Bolton. From an early age, she showed a sharp mind and a creative spirit, traits that would define her entire life. She pursued college courses in accounting, secretarial studies, and drafting to help in her father's business, Bolton & Menk, started in 1949 and still going strong in many Minnesota locations.  This so demonstrated the kind of loyalty and resourcefulness that came naturally to her.

Barb was married for 35 wonderful years to Herman "Hank" E. Weidner, and theirs was truly a beautiful love story. Together they traveled to all 50 states, visited countries around the world, and attended Air Force reunions that connected them with lifelong friends. Their beautiful and serene lake house in Brown County gave her family so many wonderful memories of trips out on the pontoon and paddleboats, dressing up in her old gowns, watching for birds, and enjoying delicious home cooked meals. As Hank and Barb would often jokingly say, "Old age ain't for sissies!"

Barb was witty, talented, gifted, and endlessly artistic. She was a gracious hostess and an exceptional cook, and her organizational skills were the stuff of legend. Her creative passions ranged from tole painting and watercolor to playing the organ and tending her beloved gardens. She was a devoted bird watcher and a baker of extraordinary skill, especially when it came to her special holiday traditions. Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren looked forward to her famous gingerbread babies and airplanes, treats made with the kind of love that turned simple ingredients into lasting memories.

Barb was an active member of PEO International Sisterhood and gave generously of her time and talents to that organization.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husbands, Herman "Hank" E. Weidner and John J. Tormey; her sister, Beverly Mutch; her brothers, John (Jack) Bolton and Duane Bolton; her daughter, Cheryl B. Tormey; and her granddaughter, Rebecca Jane Ryan.

Barb is survived by her daughter, Cynthia L. Hayes (Richard); her sons, Timothy J. Tormey and Tobin H. Tormey; her daughters, Beth Hobbs (Bob) and Jane Burcham; nine grandchildren and fifteen great-grandchildren who will carry her memory forward with every holiday tradition and every story they share.

A devoted Christian and faithful member of Grace United Methodist Church, Barb lived her faith with quiet conviction and generous spirit. Her life was a testament to the love of God and the love she poured into her family, her friendships, and her community.  She now rests in the arms of her Savior, reunited with Hank and all those she loved who went before her. The incredible legacy Barb leaves behind is woven through every life she touched, every meal she prepared with care, every painting she created, and every moment of joy, she brought to those around her.

Interment will take place at Miller Cemetery in Middletown, Henry County, Indiana.

Swartz Family Community Mortuary and Memorial Center 300 South U.S. 31 (Morton Street) in Franklin, IN is handling the arrangements.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.swartzmortuary.com.