John P. Kolas

John P. Kolas of Munster, IN passed away on the 4th of July, 2009, one day before his 94th birthday. He is survived by his beloved wife of 61 years, Helen (nee Kipta); loving father of Mary Lynn Saks, John (Diane) Kolas, Mark (Johannah) Kolas, Bob (Nancy) Kolas and Cecilia Kolas; cherished grandfather of Steven, Steve, Brian, Janelle, Lauren, Michael and John; fond brother of Lillian (Vito) Sgambelluri; preceded in death by his parents: Ignatz and Anna Kolas; brother: Peter Kolas and stepmother: Filomena Kolas. Visitation will be on Wednesday, July 8, 2009 from 4:00-8:00 PM with a 7:30 PM prayer service at Kish Funeral Home 10000 Calumet Ave. (next to Fitness Pointe) Munster, IN, and Thursday from 9:30-10:00 AM at the church. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, July 9, 2009 at 10:00 AM at St. Thomas More Church 8501 Calumet Ave. Munster, IN. Interment, St. John Cemetery, Hammond, IN.\tBorn and raised in Indiana Harbor, John was an active parishioner for 54 years at St. Thomas More Church, served with the U.S. Army during World War II, and retired from the East Chicago School System as a teacher at Franklin School. He was devoted to his family and found pleasure in all the simple things in life. Always ready with a smile and a laugh. John remained active his entire life. He was a source of great pride and inspiration to a family who will miss him dearly. His memory will be cherished forever. In lieu of flowers, contributions to a charity of your choice in his memory would be appreciated.