Gerald R. “Jerry” Kolar

Champion – Gerald R. “Jerry” Kolar, 81, passed away Thursday evening, August 8, 2024, at the Cleveland Clinic surrounded by his loving family after a 24–year battle with chronic leukemia.

Jerry will always be remembered and loved by his family and friends for his kindness, generosity, easy-going personality, sense of humor and for always being late.

He was born November 10, 1942, in Warren, the son of Victor and Agnes (Prokopchow) Kolar and was a lifelong Champion resident. 

Jerry graduated from Champion High School and then furthered his education at Fenn College where he received his bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering. 

He was employed for over 35 years at Packard Electric as a plant engineer and retired in 2001.

Jerry was a member of St. William Catholic Church in Champion, Knights of Columbus Council 7491, Ham Radio Club, the Computer Club and the Stock Club. 

Jerry had many passions throughout his life. He was a licensed pilot and enjoyed flying airplanes, driving his Corvette, riding his dirt bikes, and sailing. He was a true handyman “Mr. Fix It” and could fix anything. Above everything else, Jerry was a loving and wonderful husband, father, grandfather and friend. 

Jerry leaves behind the love of his life, Marilyn (Vistyak), his wife of over 52 years, whom he met in Jamaica and married on April 8, 1972. He is also survived by his beloved children; Mark (Kristen) Kolar of Hudson, Laura (Kenneth) Haynie of Champion and Matthew (Julie) Kolar of Aurora, and his seven grandchildren whom he adored; Lauren, Kayla, Italia, Kyle, Gianna, Justin, and Grayson, as well as his beloved Bichon, Squeak, many cousins and friends. 

Jerry is preceded in death by his parents.

Family and friends may pay their respects to Jerry on Tuesday, August 13, 2024, from 5:00 pm until 7:00 pm at the Peter Rossi & Son Memorial Chapel 1884 North Rd. NE, Warren, and again on Wednesday, August 14, 2024, from 11:30 am until 11:55 am at St. William Church 5411 Mahoning Ave. NW, Warren, where a Funeral mass follow at 12:00 pm with Fr. Michael Balash as celebrant. 

Burial will be in St. Joseph Cemetery in Champion.

In lieu of flowers contributions may be made in Jerry’s name to St. William Catholic Church in Champion

Family and friends may visit www.peterrossiandsonfh.com to view this obituary and send condolences to the Kolar family.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 

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