John J. Olha

Dear Mary, my prayers are with you and your family. I will miss John and his lovely giving kind thoughtfulness. You both were such a blessing to me every day at the Asolo. Peace be with you.
Linda Darby

Norm Hermanson

Dear Mary and Family,

Please know our prayers are with you at this difficult time. When I think of John I picture him always with a smile on his face! I am sure he is looking down at everyone with that same smile on his face.

I remember sitting before Mr. Olha in his office
while he suspended me in 1959. After all these
years I still remember his exact words,
“Why don't you get off your high horse”.
I don't even think I knew what that meant.
But I remember that I went from a little hoodlum
to the number ten ranked student at SHS's
Industrial Arts Junior Class.

RIP Mr O

My sincere condolences to the Olha family. Mr. Olha was my Principal at Stratford High, and my boss when I taught in Bridgeport, and later in Stratford. He helped me throughout my career and I have always had the utmost respect for him. May he rest in peace.

Dear Mary -- I have so many memories of John when I was a student at Bunnell (Class of '63) and then later of both of you. I recall interviewing you when I worked for the Stratford News. No words will ease your pain but know that many people are thinking of you.

I'll never forget Mr. Olha. In 1960 I was a freshman at Bunnell and he was I believe, our assistant principal. I auditioned for the Variety Show, but was wasn't crazy about the song I picked, which wasn't a well known song. He wanted me to sing "Love me or Leave Me, which I did. This is a great memory I have of him. He was a wonderful man.

So sorry to hear of John's passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you, Mary, and your family. We'll always remember his warm and cheery personality. So blessed to have known him. With fond memories, Tony and Donna Szafranic

Rest in peace.Thanks for being our Principal.
Kevin W. Edwards
SHS-class of 1966