James E. Kolarich, Sr., 90, of Niagara Falls, NY, passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 14, 2021. Born in Pageton, WV, he was the son of the late Steve and Julia Rose (Pozvak) Kolarich; and the beloved husband of the late Constance L. (Pluto) Kolarich, whom he married in 1956 in Our Lady of the Holy Rosary Church.

Slim, as he was known to his friends, was a graduate of Gary High School in Gary, WV, where he excelled as a pitcher on the baseball team and was a starter on the basketball team. Following his graduation, he enlisted into the United States Air Force until his honorable discharge in 1953 as a Master Sergeant.

James moved to Niagara Falls in the mid 1950's and began working at the International Papermill. He later retired from Pyron Powder Metals in 1995 as a furnace operator.

Mr. Kolarich was affectionately known as Coach K to countless baseball and basketball players thought out the years. He coached baseball for the Midtown little and senior leagues and coached basketball at St. Stanislaus and Holy Rosary Schools for many years. He was an avid golfer and a passionate fan of the New York Yankees and New York Giants.

Above all, James enjoyed spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren. He will be greatly remembered as a hardworking man, who always welcomed people into his home.

Mr. Kolarich is survived by his children, James E. (Anne) Kolarich, Jr., Gary Kolarich and Kenneth Kolarich; four grandchildren, Zachary, Alexander, Maxwell and Jamie Elizabeth, as well as many nieces and nephews. In addition to his wife, he was predeceased by his siblings, Mary (late Joseph) Deleski, Louis (Dorothy) Kolarich, Jessie (Shirley) Kolarich, Joseph Kolarich and Steve (late Victoria) Kolarich.

James' Mass of Christian Burial will be held  at 11 AM in Holy Family Parish at Mt. Carmel Church, 27th Street and Independence Avenue, Niagara Falls, NY. Military Honors and Interment in St. Joseph Cemetery.   In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Holy Family Parish at Mt. Carmel Church.  Visit mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com for online condolences.