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Gary Kolatsky Obituary

KOLATSKY Gary, born in Passaic, was a lifelong Clifton resident who owned and operated Gnome Jewlers for over 20 years. He was a dedicated father, friend and husband who was loved by all who knew him. He will truly be missed.Mr. Kolatsky was predeceased by his wife Mary Kolatsky and is survived by his daughter Jade Kolatsky of Clifton, granddaughter Alaina and step daughters Rosie, Jasmine and Lily Lazroe; as well as brother David Kolatsky of Clifton.Memorial Services to be held on Sat., Sept. 13 at 1 PM at Mario's Restaurant - Van Houten Ave, Clifton.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Record/Herald News on Sep. 12, 2008.

Memories and Condolences
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Amy Peterson Sandoval

September 26, 2008

We sincerely regret the loss of "Gary" personally and to the community. Everything he touched, he improved and elevated, both physically and spiritually. He celebrated every individual who came to his store, young or old, always taking the time to find a solution or the perfect match. He shared his vast wisdom freely with humility and grace and was never too busy to foster the collecting interest of growing boys.

Recently, a couple came into Gnome Jewelers to celebrate a 20th wedding anniversary. The man had been toiling at re-engineering Van Houten Avenue two decades ago and took a lunch break from the subterranean work at Gnome and "Gary" selected a timeless engagement ring for his beloved. Because of his care and kindness, they returned this year to mark their many years of happiness. "Gary" had this effect on everyone and enriched us all.

Thank you for guiding our path. Our thoughts and prayers to you and your dear family and friends. We are enormously grateful for your selflessness and exceptional example of excellence.

Randy Aron

September 19, 2008

To the family of Gary Kolatsky, my mom and I are both very sorry to hear of Gary's passing. We've known him as his customers for a very long time. We send our most deepest sympathies to his entire family. Rest in peace Gary,rest in peace. Sheila and Randy Aron-Clifton,N.J.

Krystyna Kalinka

September 18, 2008

I am sorry for the lose of one of our loved ones that we have lost physically. I personally will remember all the love, respect, and honor that my Uncle has given to others as well as myself. He remains in all of our hearts forever mentally, physically, and emotionally. My Uncle will be forever with me in my heart. May he be happy now that he is with my Aunt Mary forever they shall always be together at peace. To my cousins that have to deal with this hurt and pain inside, my condolences go out to you with love and healing. I am sorry, and I will keep you in my prayers and thoughts. I love you uncle Gary and may you always be forever with us. To those who had the blessing to meet a wonderful, loving man, we will always remember him in our own special way. My love, hugs, and strength goes out to all who knew my uncle. May he rest in peace. I love you all. Krystyna

Diane Moyse

September 16, 2008

We are very sad to hear this news... Gary fixed every piece of jewelry i ever owned, and replaced every battery in my watches.. Always a pleasure to chat with at the restaurant. You will be sadly missed.

Crystal S

September 15, 2008

I remeber when I was a little girl, grabbing some jumbos with my mom and always looking at simply the most unique, unusual, amazing, jewlery that was at his shop. Gary was such a nice man, he even fixed a cell phone cover for me with the tiny tools he had! We will all miss you gary, you were the best jewler out there, and I wish your family the best.

Alma Drongoski

September 15, 2008

I have known Gary since I was a little girl, and then he met my little girl and then somewhat recently he was able to meet my son. I have always only bought my jewelry from Gary. He was the only person I trusted to buy from and to even make custom jewelry for my family. I am going to miss my Christmas time visits. He always did a wonderful job and my family will cherish the jewelry we have accumulated from him. WE will miss him greatly. Stay strong and remember all the good times.

Charles Damian

September 13, 2008

Will miss your quiet genius

Jan Maliniak

September 12, 2008

My heart is heavy...Though I only saw Gary a couple of times in the past few years he never talked about anything but his beloved family. I saw him as an involved parent at school, in softball, and in the neighborhood. "Jadey " all he ever did was talk about you and Alaina, how smart you are, and how proud of you he was. Please try to be strong. This is not something you should have to endure. I know you have the love of your family and friends, I hope that will comfort you in some small way.

Susan Van Blarcom

September 12, 2008

Gary was a wonderful person. He made my Betty Boop so beautiful, full of diamonds. He had recently borrowed it to show customers and was so proud of his work and so was I. I feel so terrible. I hope and pray his daughter, granddaughter and stepdaughters stay strong and know how much he will be missed by all those that knew him.

Jessica Radosti - Struck

September 12, 2008

Gary was a lifelong Clifton icon. As a child I loved to browse his shop, and as an adult I would go nowhere else to have my jewelry repaired. Gary saved the day on my wedding day, even with his wife's recent passing, although the front of the shop was still loaded with flowers in honor of Mary, he stretched my wedding ring to fit my finger. He was a wonderful, knowledgeable man with the friendliest of dispositions. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him. My condolences to his family and close friends.

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