Paul John Colaner

Paul John Colaner, 89, of Massillon, passed away following an extended illness on April 14, 2024. Earth's loss was Heaven's gain as Paul passed peacefully at home surrounded by family that loved him so dearly.

He was born on May 30, 1934 to the late John and Grace (Franz) Colaner of Canton, OH.

He was a graduate of Timken High School, received his Bachelor of Science from Kent State University and his MBA from Indiana University. Paul served in the United States Air Force and the Army. After the service he returned to the area and started to work as a teacher and football coach at Mckinley.

Later he went into accounting working for a number of firms including Diebold, Inc. and then went to work for The United States Government retiring in 1999. Paul had a passion for physical fitness and was dedicated to his family. He never met a stranger and was willing to help anyone in need. He was truly the hands and feet of Jesus. Paul was always willing to listen to young people and help guide them on their path.

Paul is survived by his loving wife of 63 years, Margaret; their children, Kimberly M (Ricki) Rogers and Karen S. (John) Kortis; grandchildren, Mark (Christie) Rogers, Aaron (Brittany) Rogers, Jaimie (Mike) McRae, Beth (Cameron) Palmer, Lena Kortis, Nick Kortis, Maggie Kortis, and Kyle Colaner; and numerous great-grandchildren, relatives and friends.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, Paul J. Colaner II; and sisters, Rita Angeli and Evelyn Molyneaux.

Visitation will be held on Friday, April 19, 2024 from 6pm-8pm and on Saturday, April 20, 2024 from 9am-10:30am at the Paquelet Funeral Home, Massillon, Ohio.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, April 20, 2024, 11:00am at the St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church, Canton, Ohio.

Inurnment will be in Calvary Cemetery at a later date.

Memorials may be made to the St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church.

Messages of condolence and support may be sent to the family at www.paquelet.com