Monsignor James Kolp dies at 99 years old

YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio - The Catholic Diocese of Youngstown has announced the passing of Monsignor James Kolp.
According to a press release, Kolp died Thursday, February 6 at 99 years old. He had served nearly 75 years in the Catholic Diocese of Youngstown.
Kolp is a Canton native. He attended Saint Paul School in North Canton, as well as Saint John High School in Canton. Following his graduation, he entered Sacred Heart Seminary in Detroit and completed his studies at Saint Mary Seminary in Cleveland.
He also attended Catholic University in Washington, D.C. where he earned his Masters Degree in education.
Kolp was ordained into priesthood in 1950 by then Youngstown Bishom James McFadden at Saint Columba Cathedral where he served as parochial vicar. He also served as faculty at both Cardinal Mooney and Ursuline High Schools.
He had also served as pastor at several other Valley parishes including Saint Philip Neri Parish in Dungannon, which is located in Columbiana County, as well as Saint Bernadette Parish in Masury and Saint James Parish in Warren.
From 1973 until retirement, he served as pastor of Saint Mary Parish in Massillon. Kolp retired in 2000.
In addition to serving as priest, Kolp was also an active member of the Knights of Columbus, Massillon Council #554. He served on the Priest Retirement Board, Presbyteral Council, as diocesan director of the Boy and Girl Scouts, moderator of the National Council of Catholic Women and was the coordinator of the Inner-City Apostolate in Warren.
Calling hours for Kolp will be held at Divine Mercy Parish Saint Mary Church in Massillon Wednesday, February 12 between 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. A funeral service will be held there from 11:45 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. the following day, followed by a burial at 1 p.m.