Harrison Mourns Death of Beloved Teacher and Coach Brian Kolakowski

The Town of Harrison is grappling with the sudden loss of Brian Kolakowski, 37 years old, affectionately known as "Kola" by his peers, who has been a fixture in the local education and sports community. Mr. Kolakowski, a dedicated teacher at Washington Middle School and coach at Harrison High School, was reported missing on December 4, 2024, sparking a wide-ranging search that ended in tragedy.

Living in North Arlington, NJ, Mr. Kolakowski was last seen driving his vehicle, which was later discovered submerged in the Passaic River by a Kearny Police officer reviewing surveillance footage. The incident occurred early in the morning at 4:29 a.m., off a boat ramp next to the Frank Vincent Marina on Passaic Avenue in Kearny, a site frequently used by local rowing teams.

Since joining Washington Middle School in 2010, Mr. Kolakowski had become an integral part of the school community, not only teaching physical education but also leading the Harrison High School Girls Tennis Team and the Flag Football Team to new heights. His commitment was recognized last year when he was honored as the North Jersey Inter Scholastic Conference Meadowlands Coach of the Year.

The North Arlington Police Department, along with the Kearny Police and the New Jersey State Police, assisted by Moran Towing of Kearny, coordinated the recovery efforts. The Kearny Police Department has stated that the investigation is ongoing, but preliminary findings suggest that the incident was not the result of any criminal act or a threat to public safety.

The Superintendent of the Harrison Public Schools, Maureen Kroog, and the Director of Personnel, James Doran, who also serves as a Councilman of the Town of Harrison, issued a joint statement mourning the loss. "Mr. Kolakowski was known for his unwavering commitment, kindness, and the positive impact he had on everyone in the Harrison School District," they said in a letter to parents of students. "His passing is a devastating blow not just to our schools, but to the entire community."

Harrison High School Girl's Tennis Team with Coach Brian Kolakowski

The school district has announced that counseling services will be made available to students and staff as they navigate this difficult time. Mr. Kolakowski's contribution to the educational and sports community of Harrison will be remembered, and his legacy will undoubtedly continue to influence young athletes and students in the years to come.

The Harrison community has lost more than just a teacher and coach; they have lost a vital part of their heart. As investigations continue, the focus remains on supporting those affected by this unexpected tragedy and honoring the memory of a man who dedicated his life to enriching the lives of others.

Funeral Arrangements are as follows: Visitation on Sunday, December 15, 2024, from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. and Monday, December 16, 2024, from 11 a.m. to Noon at the Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home located at 596 Belgrove Drive, Kearny NJ.  Funeral Mass on Monday, December 16, 2024, at 1 p.m. at the Saint Stephen’s Roman Catholic Church, 141 Washington Avenue (corner with Kearny Avenue) in Kearny NJ.

Photo Credit(s): Harrison Education Association, The Observer Newspaper.