James Francis Kolesar
Dec. 6, 1938 - Dec. 18, 2015
James Francis Kolesar died on Dec. 18, 2015, at the age of 77. He was born in Butte on Dec. 6, 1938, to John and Loretta (Solomon) Kolesar. He loved the outdoors, spending his free time hunting, fishing and playing golf. He was a proficient bowler, participating in a Lovell bowling league for many years.[caption id="attachment_10781" align="alignright" width="247"] James Francis Kolesar[/caption]Jim’s passion, however, was teaching. He held a master’s degree in education and began his teaching career in Willow Creek, Mont. After one year there, he moved to Lovell, where he spent the rest of his career educating thousands in the wonders of mathematics. His students were treated to his diligence, patience and devotion to the task of helping them learn. He spent countless hours after work on his own time coaching those that asked for help. He had a great positive impact on so many young people.The characteristics that embodied his career also drove his life. He had deep faith in God and was an active member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Lovell.Jim is survived by his siblings Marlene Forster of Ottawa, Canada, Barry of Placentia, Calif., Larry of Renton, Wash., and Robert of Bozeman. He will be greatly missed.Services will be held at 10 a.m. Jan. 6 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, with a reception to follow. A vigil is scheduled for 7 p.m. the evening of Jan. 5 at Haskell Funeral Home. All of his friends and students are most welcome to attend to honor Jim’s life.In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to St. Joseph’s.