The Rev. James Dolan, who died Sunday, May 7, performs the sacrament of baptism for Michaela Peratt, daughter of Rodney and Lauren Peratt of Butler Township, in 2005. He also baptized the couple’s daughter, Caitlin, in 2002. Submitted photo

It somehow seems fitting that the Rev. James W. Dolan left the Earth to gain his heavenly reward on a Sunday morning, but that will not diminish the loss felt by those who knew and loved him.

“He loved his parish and loved saying Mass for the people and he was a good shepherd of souls,” said Sister Nancy Schnur, who was assigned to St. Michael Parish when Dolan served as pastor there.

“I worked with him for 12 years there,” Schnur said. “I learned a lot from Father Dolan. I must say, his life itself was an example.”

Dolan died at his home May 5 at age 73. He was a Butler High School and Duquesne University graduate, and served at St. Michael and St. Peter parishes in the years five local Catholic churches merged into All Saints Parish.

Schnur recalled that computers were just landing in offices everywhere during her time working with Dolan.