Jean M. Kolp, 89, of Laramie, WY died August 28, 2021.
Jean was born April 22, 1932 in Waterloo, Iowa to Reuben J. Miller and Evelyn W. Miller. She attended grade and high school in Waterloo, IA.
Jean was attending Iowa State College when she met Bernard J. Kolp. She admitted that she changed her route to class to be able to say “Good Morning” to Bernie. They were married September 4, 1953.
Their first child, Ken, was born in Iowa in 1954, while they were in undergraduate college together. Their second, Linda, was born in 1955 in Kansas, while Bernie was in graduate school. David and Nancy were born in Wyoming where Bernie was employed by the College of Agriculture at the University of Wyoming (UW). Today they have nine grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren.
Jean finished her degree in Home Economics at UW and then went back to school and earned a second degree in Accounting and passed the CPA examinations.
Jean spent two years in Somalia, 1967-1969, while Bernie worked on an irrigated agricultural research project. While there, Jean taught math in the American School. Upon returning from Somalia, Jean worked in the Budget Office at UW. They returned to Somalia, 1983-1985, when Bernie worked on a non-irrigated agricultural project. Even through power outages, Jean was very resourceful and perfected the art of making wonderful cupcakes over charcoal fires, of which she was very proud.
Upon retirement Jean and Bernie spent many winters in Arizona, summers in Laramie, and at the cabin on Miller Lake, which they built one board at a time. They pulled an RV trailer to and from Alaska four times. On one trip to Alaska, they canned six cases of salmon, 24 jars per case.
The family will have a private service for Jean at their cabin in the mountains.
Memorials may be made to the United Methodist Church, 1215 E. Gibbon St., Laramie, WY, 82070, or Secure.myvanco.com/YNQE/home or [email protected]
Nancy and Linda, I'm so sorry for your loss. My deepest sympathy during this very difficult time.
Thank you Gregg. God is good and gave us all time to say good bye. She is missed but I know I will see her again.
Ken and Linda! I am so sorry for your loss. Your mom was so great. What memories your mom's picture brought back - back then at Prep we knew each other, each other's parents, etc. It is sad to see things like this. I hope you are both doing well. I again am so sorry for your loss. I don't like this time in our lives. I hope to help to get a multi-reunion going. I would love to see you both. My email is [email protected] - I would love it if you would send me your email addresses also. Deepest sympathies, Mardell
Miles apart, but hearts are close. Aunt Jean was a fabulous aunt, always felt loved and welcomed. Big hugs to Kenny, Linda Nancy and David. My biggest hug goes to my uncle Bernard. Your California family loves you ❤️
Thank you Jimmy! My love back to you. Unfortunately, you how this all feels. Hugs to you as well. Nancy
We extend our sincere sympathies to the Kolp family. Jean, wife, Mother, Grandmother and Great Grandmother, will be missed by many. Kent and June Allen
Thank you!
Linda, I was so sorry to read of your Mom's passing. Prayers and Hugs!
Norm and Tish Merriam Jean and Bernie are two of the nicest and most helpful people we know. The world was a better place for having Jean with us. You have our deepest condolences. We knew you were fellow Iowans, but only now learned of the ISC connection. Norm is ISC/ISU '61.
Thank you for your kind words. The world is a better placing because of them. ?
Dear Kolp Family, Jean is missed already. She made a difference in the many lives she touched. My sincere sympathy and love to each of you as you get through this most difficult time. Chris Lummis
Thank you Chris for your kind words. Mom always spoke well of you! Nancy
Bernie, I was so sad to learn of Jean’s passing. You both were an important part of my life. Jean was always so kind and welcoming. She touched many lives and she will be missed.
Jean was a kind and generous lady. She will be missed. Our thoughts are with you.
Thank you. We have been blessed to have her as our mom.
Mr Kolp, I am so sorry to hear of your loss. I always enjoyed running into Jean either at First Interstate or at church. Thoughts and prayers are with you.