Pioneer of Falls tourism remembered
A pioneer and legend in the Niagara Falls tourism industry has died.
Betty Lou Bolus was a main contributor and member in the formation of the original Niagara Falls Canada Visitor & Convention Bureau in the early 1960s that led to the success the tourism industry is today. She was 85.
Bolus battled Wegener’s disease for three years and died Sunday.
“Pretty hard to find somebody who was more influential in the tourist industry than Betty Bolus,” said Wayne Thomson, former mayor, current councillor and long-time industry official.
“Her personality just drew everybody to her. She was constantly working and contributing. We’re probably in the place we are today because of all of her initial work in the ‘60s.”
Bolus at one time was the co-owner of the Panasonic/ Minolta Tower Complex, and most recently the Secret Garden Restaurant & Gift Shop.
She was known as a hard worker, usually the first into work and the last to leave, putting in many hours.
Her family said Bolus was an employer who was proud to work with the hundreds of employees who employed at her successful business establishments. She also loved working with the general public, and was always recognized for her kindness in the industry.
“(Bolus and) her husband at the time, Louis, were the ones who had the former Seagram Tower for many years, now the Tower Hotel,” said Thomson.
“They were both active in the tourism industry. Eventually she ended up with Bill Newman (partner and best friend of 50 years according to her obituary), who was also extremely involved in tourism ...”
He said Bolus was “extremely bright” and dedicated to tourism in Niagara Falls, and somebody who people looked up to.
“I think that Betty was even working right up to just recently, continuing on in her senior years. Wonderful person. It’s a great loss for the community, for all she’s done for us, and a great loss for tourism in particular.”
In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations be made to the Covenant House, Tender Wishes, Sick Kids, or a charity of the donor’s choice.
Family will join friends for visitation at Pleasantview Funeral Home in Thorold Thursday from 2-4 p.m., and 6-8 p.m.
A celebration of Bolus’ life will be held at the Pleasantview Chapel Friday at 11 a.m. with a reception following at Pleasantview.