James P. Colt

Lansing, NY

James P. Colt, of Lansing, NY, passed away peacefully on September 23, 2016 at the age of 90.  Jim, son of the late Leo and Lillian Colt, was born on July 20, 1926 in Olean, NY.

Jim graduated from Olean High School and proudly served his country in the US Navy.  Upon being honorably discharged, he entered NYS Teachers College at Buffalo and received a degree in education.  He was a member of Kappa Delta Pi, Epsilon PI TAU, Inc., and Sigma Tau Gamma.  Jim continued his advanced degree at Cornell University and Syracuse University.  He taught Industrial Arts at Lansing High School and later became the High School Guidance Counselor for the District, retiring in 1983.  He helped hundreds of students choose their career paths.

While in his early years of teaching he met a beautiful, Lansing High School History teacher, Mary Regan.  They were married on August 22, 1953 and spent 63 years together exploring the world.

Jim was proud of his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.  He was an avid golfer.  He was a member of the All Saints Catholic Church, Lansing Lions Club, Guidance Counselors Association, Elks Lodge No. 636, Stonehedges Golf Course, and Cayuga Medical Center Foundation Board of Directors.

Jim is survived by his loving wife, Mary, children, Stephen (Ann) Colt, Susan (Donald) Worsell, and Jeffrey (Nancy) Colt.  Grandchildren, Thomas Colt (Jessica Sawchuk), Joshua (Jessica) Reinhart, Megan (Cory) VanNederynen, J. Hunter Colt, and Samuel Colt, and three great-grandchildren.  He was predeceased by his parents, sister, Helen Krauszer, and brother-in-law, Albert Krauszer.

As per Jim’s request, there will be no calling hours.  Private committal and burial service will take place at Sampson Veterans Memorial Cemetery with full military honors.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Foodnet, 2422 N. Triphammer Road, Ithaca, NY 14850.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Jim’s dedicated home health aides and the team from Hospicare & Palliative Care Services of Tompkins County.

Arrangements are being handled by Lansing Funeral Home.