Monsignor Kolp, a Canton native, served nearly 75 years in the diocese
NEWS RELEASE
February 10, 2025
YOUNGSTOWN, OH – With sorrow, the Most Reverend David J. Bonnar, Bishop of Youngstown, has announced the death of Monsignor James Kolp, who died February 6, 2025. He was 99 years old, and survived by nephew Peter Kolp, and nieces Carol Savage, Jane Stone, and Ellen Altieri. He was preceded in death by his parents and siblings, Mary Josephine, Sister Kathleen Anne, and Joseph.
Monsignor Kolp was born on June 11, 1925, the son of Merton and Ann (Hamann) Kolp. He attended Saint Paul School in North Canton and Saint John High School in Canton. Following 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., earning a Master of Arts Degree in Education.
He was ordained to the priesthood on April 29, 1950 by the Most Reverend James A. McFadden, Bishop of Youngstown, at Saint Columba Cathedral. Following ordination, Monsignor Kolp served as parochial vicar at Saint Columba Cathedral and served on the faculty at Cardinal Mooney High School and Ursuline High School.
In 1964 he became pastor of Saint Philip Neri Parish in Dungannon. He also served as pastor at Saint Bernadette Parish, Masury (1965-1967), and Saint James Parish, Warren, (1967-1973). In 1973 he was appointed pastor of Saint Mary Parish, Massillon, serving until his retirement in 2000. He was named a prelate of honor by Pope John Paul II in April 2000.
In addition to his pastoral assignments, Monsignor Kolp was 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 will be held on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, from 4:00-7:00 p.m. at Divine Mercy Parish – Saint Mary Church, in Massillon, (206 Cherry Rd NE), with Evening Vespers at 7:00 p.m. and on Thursday, February 13. 2025, from 11:45 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Divine Mercy Parish – Saint Mary Church on Thursday, February 13th at 1:00 p.m.
