John A. Kolander

John A. Kolander, 88, of Pittston, passed away bravely at Hospice of the Sacred Heart in Dunmore on Friday, May 30, 2025, with his loving wife and sons by his side.  He was born in Avoca on February 9, 1937, the son of the late Mary and Anthony Kolander.

John and his devoted wife, Phyllis, shared 62 years of marriage, holding each other’s hands and hearts through a lifetime built on love, commitment, and family.  He was a proud father and grandfather, living a life centered around dedication to those he loved.

John and Phyllis were members of the Elm Park United Methodist Church in Scranton.  Formerly of Moosic, they have resided at the United Methodist Homes’ Wesley Village in Pittston for the past five years, where they built many cherished friendships.

A graduate of Avoca High School, Class of 1954, John went on to attend the University of Scranton and Penn State Extension in Dunmore, becoming a professional civil engineer.  He also earned his license as a professional land surveyor.  John retired from the PA Department of Transportation, Dunmore after 31 years of dedicated service.

He was a longtime member and past president of the American Society of Highway Engineers. John also served his country honorably in the U.S. Army Reserves for five years.  In addition, he gave back to his community as a committee member of Boy Scout Troop 18 in Moosic, where both of his sons were active scouts and earned the rank of Eagle Scout.

John had a passion for the outdoors and enjoyed camping and traveling across the country with Phyllis by his side. Together, they explored the beauty of America through land and cruise vacations, including a memorable trip to Alaska.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Phyllis, and their sons: John Jr. of Scranton and Jeffrey and wife Charlene, of Collegeville.  Also surviving are grandchildren Zachary, Natalie, Ryan and Andrew; sisters Dorothy Swieboda and Ceil Standish; brother-in-law Bill Parry and wife Christa; along with several nieces and nephews.

We have been touched by John’s strong presence of love, faith, and enduring strength, even in his final hours.

May God bless the angels of the Hospice of the Sacred Heart who prepared John with comfort and peace for the transition of his journey.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, July 12, 2025, at 1:00pm at Kiesinger Funeral Services, Inc., 255 McAlpine St., Duryea with Rev. Mike Bealla former pastor of Elm Park United Methodist Church, Scranton officiating.  Friends may call for visitation from 11:00am until time of service.  Burial will be held at Fairview Memorial Park Cemetery, privately at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of the Sacred Heart, 100 William St., Dunmore, PA 18510 or to United Methodist Homes, Wesley Village, 209 Roberts Road, Pittston, PA 18640.

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