Carol Kolakowski

Carol Ann (Jarski) Kolakowski, age 84, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, November 7, 2025. She was born in Erie on May 15, 1941, the daughter of the late Walter and Ann (Turco) Jarski.

Carol graduated from East High School with the Class of 1959. In May 1962, she married the love of her life, Donald Kolakowski, at Sacred Heart Church. Together they welcomed two children, beginning in 1969. Over the years, Carol built a dedicated career with roles at American Sterilizer, First National Bank, and the Sarah Reed Retirement Center, retiring in 2009.

Carol was an active member of the La Nuova Aurora Society of Erie and previously belonged to the Sacred Heart Ushers Club, Erie Maennerchor Club, and the Siebenbuerger Club. She and Don were familiar faces at these local clubs, the annual Zabawa Fest, and on the sidelines of area basketball games, especially while Don coached at East High School.

Carol was a nurturing, supportive, and selfless Mom. She was as funny as she was sweet, one of the kindest people you could ever meet. To know her was to love her. With an infectious giggle and bright smile, she lit up any room. Carol was quick-witted, genuine, and beautiful with a feisty streak that made her unforgettable. She loved shopping, golfing, and gardening; but most of all, she cherished being surrounded by her family. She lived for those moments and passed that love of togetherness on to her children.

A devoted grandmother, "G-Ma" was a constant presence at her grandchildren's events. Whether near or far, she rarely missed an opportunity to support her grandchildren. In recent months, she found special joy in caring for her new great-grandson, Weston, and treasured every minute of babysitting him. Her warmth, humor, and steadfast support will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Donald J. Kolakowski in 1997.

Carol is survived by her children, Nicole Maciulewicz (husband, Tom) and Jennifer Lucarotti (husband, Tony); her grandchildren, Olivia and Sophia Menc (fiance, Jordan Baker); Michael, Ryan and Ava Lucarotti; Madison and Dylan Maciulewicz; two great-grandchildren, Tommy and Weston Baker; loving companion, Tom Sadoski; brother, Joseph Jarski; and beloved dog, Enzo. She is also survived by her extended family including many nieces, nephews, cousins and numerous lifelong friends.

Family and friends are invited to call at the John R. Orlando Funeral Home, 2122 Raspberry Street, on Wednesday, November 12, 2025 from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. and may attend a Funeral Mass at Saint Patrick Church, 130 East 4th Street, on Thursday, November 13, 2025 at 11:30 a.m. Burial will be in Gate of Heaven Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the ANNA Shelter (https://www.theannashelter.com/), 1555 East 10th Street, Erie, PA 16511.