Joel T. Gollar

GOLLAR, JOEL T., 74, of Louisville, passed away Saturday, October 25, 2025 surrounded by family.
Joe was born on August 15, 1951, and was a proud graduate of St. Xavier High School Class of 1969. He served in the Navy during the Vietnam era. He was stationed at Naval Station Rota, Spain where his mission was tracking Russian Nuclear Subs.
After completing his military service, utilizing the GI bill, he graduated from the University of Louisville with a BS in Health Science in Nuclear Medicine Technology in 1984 and a Master of Science in 1988. He started his career at St. Anthony's Hospital in the Radiology Department and then worked as a Certified Nuclear Med Technologist in the Nuclear Cardiology Department at Norton's Hospital.
It was during that time that Joe first met Kelly at Sunset East Tavern. They were married on May 20, 1989 and celebrated 36 years of marriage. Over the years, they loved and raised their Golden Retrievers - Bu ett, Hemingway, Guinness and Cabo.
Joe devoted many hours through the years writing and publishing his book, More Than Meets The Eye about the assassination of JFK, as it had a profound impact on him and many youth/adolescents of his era. Joe's love of the Kentucky Wildcats was legendary to anyone who knew him. He looked forward to every fall and winter for the UK football and basketball seasons. He loved music and enjoyed everything from Bluegrass to Buffett. He introduced us to many different artists in the basement on Highland Avenue. Among the many concerts he attended Jackson Browne, Lyle Lovett and the Mavericks were among his favorites. After retiring from Norton's, Joe and Kelly continued their travels abroad to many countries, but their favorite locations were on the whitest of beaches with the bluest of waters.
Joe was preceded in death by his wife Kelly Marie Sumner Gollar, parents, Herman C. Gollar, Sr. and Mary G Gollar, and his brother Herman C. (Corky) Gollar, Jr,
He is survived by his six siblings, Terry Monhollen, Rose Lewis, Bobby (Mary) and John (Jack) Gollar, Joyce Carrico (Jerry), and Lynn Gollar. As well as his in-laws Sam and Joy Sumner. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews and extended family.
Visitation will be from 1-7 pm Friday, November 7 at Bosse Funeral Home, 1355 Ellison Avenue. A private burial will follow at a later time at St. Michael Cemetery.
The family would like to thank Dr. Don Stevens, the sta at Norton Cancer Institute, the 5 East sta at Norton Women's and Children's Hospital and Hospice for the excellent care and support Joe received.
In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to Norton Healthcare Foundation, attention "Heel Dog, Heal Dog", sent to 4965 US Hwy 42, Suite 1000, Louisville, Kentucky 40222, or call 502-420-4299. You can also donate online at https://nortonhealthcare.com/ways-to-help/online-donations/. Envelopes will be available at the visitation as well.