James A. Colonna, 89, of Selinsgrove, formerly of Punxsutawney, passed away on Tuesday, March 2, at his home after a long illness.

Jim was born June 13, 1931, in Kittanning, a son of the late James V. and Maria (Mazza) Colonna. On July 19, 1969, he married Ruth E. Kerr.

He was a parishioner at Saints Cosmas and Damian Roman Catholic Church in Punxsutawney, where he served as a cantor and choir member. Most recently he attended St. Pius X Catholic Church in Selinsgrove.

Jim was drafted into the U.S. Army during the Korean War and served in the Anti-Aircraft Corps in Pittsburgh.

He graduated from St. Vincent College in 1956 and earned his master's degree in music from Duquesne University.

He had a distinguished career of 37 years as the band director and music department chair at Punxsutawney Area High School, where he was a teacher of well over a thousand students and a second father to many. He took his students to perform at the World's fair in New York City and several times to Walt Disney World.

Perhaps his proudest moment was having his band selected to perform at the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts for a 4th of July concert in Washington, D.C. Jim retired in 1993 with a concert in Barclay Square attended by more than 1,000 well-wishers.

He will be remembered as an amazing and loving husband, father, grandfather, a champion of music education and a dedicated teacher and mentor.

In addition to his wife of 51 years, Ruth, Jim is survived by four children and their families: Jim Colonna and wife Chrissy of Dover, Pa.; Kimberly Colonna of Harrisburg: Colleen Wentz and husband Ed of Selinsgrove; and Corry Colonna of Long Beach, California. Additionally, he is survived by six beautiful grandchildren, Abigail and Anthony Colonna and Alexandra, Zachary, Isabella and Aubrianne Wentz; he is also survived by his sister, Jeanette Schmidt and family of Butler.

A private funeral Mass will be held at St. Pius X Catholic Church, Selinsgrove, with Father Tukura Pius Michael OP as celebrant.

Private interment with military honors accorded by the Jefferson County Veterans Honor Guard will be held in Calvary Cemetery, Punxsutawney.

The family anticipates hosting a celebration of Jim's life this summer.

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to the Colonna Family Scholarship at St. Vincent College, 300 Fraser Purchase Rd., Latrobe, PA 15650.

Arrangements are by the V.L. Seebold Funeral Home, 601 N. High St., Selinsgrove.

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

Published by The Punxsutawney Spirit from Mar. 3 to Mar. 4, 2021.

Memories and Condolences
for James Colonna

Sponsored by V L Seebold Funeral Home.

15 Entries

The Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth

March 9, 2021

We were so sorry to hear of James's passing. Though we know he has gone home to God, it is still difficult for the loved ones left behind. James and his family and friends are in our thoughts during this difficult time. The Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth are praying for all of you, now and always.

Sandra Allison Neutz

March 7, 2021

Many fond memories of my four years in the PHS band directed by Mr. Colonna. He was not only a great band director, but also a great person and friend. May he rest in peace.

Linda Curry Bartholomew

March 6, 2021

Such fond memories of our band trip to the World’s Fair. Prayers for you all. Linda Curry Bartholomew

Jackie Cannon

March 6, 2021

A great teacher who inspired many band students. I still love to hear an American March played

Patricia Cochran

March 5, 2021

To Ruth and family, So sorry for your loss. I had 3 daughters that were in the band and any time I would see him He always asked how my daughters were doing.

Marilyn Stein Underhill

March 5, 2021

Mr Colonna was a gentleman and was gentle in telling me that I really had little talent on the clarinet so I continued with the piano and organ and singing under the guidance of Esther Jane Davis.
The music department at PHS was excellent under his leadership. Special prayers for his family.
Blessings, Marilyn Stein Uderhill, PHS 1960

Rachel ( Schmidt) Nelson

March 5, 2021

We would like to send our deepest sympathies to you all for the loss of this amazing husband, father, and grandfather, but he was also a special uncle to us and I felt especially close to him as my “Godfather.” I will never forget all the conversations we had together and how caring and compassionate he has always been towards myself and my family. One of the highlights of my life was being able to conduct the Punxsutawney High School Band, trying my best to fill some amazing shoes! Having him on stage with me to guest conduct, was an experience I will never forget. When you get to stand with a legend, you hang on to that memory forever! We will all cherish every moment we got to talk to and spend with him. Your entire family will be in our thoughts and prayers. There is no question in my mind, heaven has just gained a “first-class angel!”

With love always,
Matthew, Rachel, and Maria Nelson

Pat Hollopeter

March 5, 2021

I was privileged to have been under Mr. Colonna’s tutelage at Punxsutawney High School as a member of the high school band. He was the consummate teacher and gentleman. He gave you a push when you needed it, but was always there for you when you weren’t at your best. I will never forget going to the World’s Fair. The caliber of music that he exposed us to was astonishing. Often when I listen to the local classical music station, I recognize a composition that we played in high school. My condolences to his family.

Ted Cramer

March 5, 2021

I'm proud to say that I've had interactions with 4 generations of the Colonna family. I've had many interactions with James A. Colonna and the extended family during my career as a band director. I would like to convey my sincere condolunces to the entire family - RIP James A. Colonna.

Chip Buck

March 4, 2021

Jim Colonna was a life long friend of my father, Keith Buck. My sisters and I have heard many stories of their times together, especially at music events. I can remember my dad Calling Jim if he couldn't remember the melody for a trio of a march, or to share a funny story. Mr. Colonna was a giant in music education and he proudly carried on the work started by his father and grandfather. The entire Buck family sends its most sincere condolences to his family during this difficult time.

Kathy Bish

March 4, 2021

I enjoyed my years in the music department of Punxsutawney under Jim's leadership. Rest in peace, Jim. My condolences to Ruth and family.

Kay Thorell

March 4, 2021

To Jeanette: I just read your brother’s obituary from the Punxsutawney paper. I’m extending my sympathy to you and your family. You may not remember me, Kay (Schreckengost) Thorell, originally from Butler. I was a student of yours, and niece of Nelda Gaiser King. I sang in and accompanied choirs in the Butler schools. Maybe you remember “Betty Botter”! Again, my condolences and prayers. Kay

MaryAnn Roseman Kernich

March 4, 2021

Thank you for the memories Mr. Colonna❤

Randy Zufall & Family

March 4, 2021

To the best Band Director ever. You were the GREATEST !

Thank you for your Military Service. We SALUTE you.

Love and Prayers to all family and friends from all of the Zufall Family.

Dennis Cramer

March 4, 2021

I had the pleasure of knowing Jim & his remarkable family for many years. He was a friend, mentor and colleague--always there to help if you needed it. He truly made a difference in this world and will be missed. My heart felt condolences go out to his family. The image below is from 1954--Jim is playing solo cornet in the Kittanning Fireman's Band with his brother conducting.

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