Vickie l. Bolger 1960-2025

YOUNGSTOWN — It is with heavy hearts we announce the unexpected passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend, Vickie L. Rouns Bolger, 65, who left this world on Monday, June 30, 2025, at her home. Though our hearts are broken, we take comfort in knowing she is finally at peace.
Vickie was born on Feb. 22, 1960, in Youngstown, to the late Robert E. Rouns Sr. and Carol J. Hunt Rouns. She was a proud 1978 graduate of Woodrow Wilson High School.
Vickie dedicated her life to caring for others. She worked as a nurse for 30 years and also spent time working for the Shields division of the Youngstown Police Department. She worked as a waitress for 11 years, as a second job to help support her family. One of her proudest moments was receiving a proclamation from the City of Hubbard for rescuing people from a fire — an act that spoke volumes about her courage and compassion.
She is survived by her loving son, David H. Bolger (Brittany Young); her beloved grandchildren, Braylon H. Bolger and Angelina M. Nommay, who were the absolute center of her world; and her lifelong companion, Thomas J. Horvat, the love of her life who gave her the best life possible. She also leaves behind her siblings: Patricia A. Durkin Thomas, Patricia A. Rouns Wagner, Diana Rouns Fox, Gloria J. Rouns Merchant and Perry V. Rouns Sr., along with many nieces, nephews and extended family members.
Vickie was preceded in death by her parents, Robert E. Rouns Sr. and Carol J. Hunt Rouns; brothers, Donald Durkin and Robert Rouns; sister, Rayma Rouns; nephew, Nick D’Altorio; niece Candy Cole; and grandson Brady Bolger.
Vickie was the heart and soul of our family. She loved fiercely and unconditionally — especially when it came to her grandchildren, Braylon and Angelina, who were her everything. Every hug, every smile, every “I love you” reflected the endless devotion she had for them. She never missed a moment to show up, cheer them on, and remind them how special they were.
She shared an unbreakable bond with her son, David, and embraced Brittany not just as a daughter-in-law, but as family. And her love story with Tom was something truly special — full of loyalty, laughter and lasting companionship.
Vickie had a passion for motorcycles, music, travel and summer days spent swimming. She loved her dogs deeply and was a proud dog mom who treated them like family. Whether at sporting events or school functions, she was always there — loud with love and bursting with pride.
Though our time with her wasn’t nearly long enough, her love will continue to guide us every single day. She was our rock, our safe place and truly one of life’s greatest gifts.
Calling hours will be 4 to 6 p.m. July 7, 2025, at Higgins-Reardon Funeral Homes, Austintown Chapel, 4303 Mahoning Ave., Youngstown, followed by a service.
A celebration of life dinner will be announced at a later time.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests monetary donations to help honor Vickie’s life and legacy.
(special notice)