Rev. Larry Nolan

Reverend Father Larry Nolan, OCSO (Order of Cistercians of the Strict Observance, commonly known as the Trappists), died on September 21, 2018 while in palliative care at Mount Carmel—East Hospital.  He was born in Wheeling, West Virginia on October 2, 1930 to the late Lawrence and Anne Nolan. He grew up in Oak Harbor, Ohio, and was called by God to the monastic life, entering the New Melleray Abbey in Peosta, Iowa (www.newmelleray.org) at age 18 and ordained a priest for the Trappists on May 1, 1958 at the Abbey by Archbishop Leo Binz of the Archdiocese of Dubuque. He spent 20 years in contemplative life at the Abbey, but was also drawn to pastoral ministry as a priest. He moved to Dayton where he taught for a period of time, also working on and receiving a Master of Education in Counseling degree from the University of Cincinnati before serving as Chaplain at Good Samaritan Hospital (Cincinnati). In 1976 Father Nolan moved to the Diocese of Columbus and held assignments at the former Saint Raphael’s and Saint Rita’s homes for the aged, Mount Carmel—East Hospital, the former Saint Anthony Hospital (now OSU East Hospital) and Mercy Hospital (now Select Specialty Hospital) and Mother Angeline McCrory Manor; he also served as Chaplain for the Sisters of Saint Joseph, and held parish assignments while in residence at Holy Spirit Church (Whitehall) and Saint Mary Church (Columbus). He spent a number of years involved with Engaged Encounter and Beginning Experience ministries, and a number of years in ministry and residence at Saint Therese’s Shrine and Retreat Center. He also spent 18 years as the official photographer for the Quilt Surface Design Symposium of International Quilt Artists in addition to his own glass blowing, sculpture and quilt art. Father Nolan retired to Mohun Health Care Center (Columbus) just a few years ago. In addition to his parents Father Nolan is preceded in death by his sister, Mary Anne Hartford.  He is survived by his sisters, Dorothy Geisland, Joan Carrick, Cecilia (Jerry) Rigot and Paula (Sam) Lehmann; brother, Paul (Dorothy) Nolan; many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Calling hours will be Tuesday, September 25 from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. in the chapel at Saint Therese’s Shrine and Retreat Center, 5277 East Broad Street, Columbus, where a Rosary will be prayed at 8 p.m.  Visitation will continue Wednesday, September 26 at Our Mother of Sorrows Chapel, 6440 South High Street, on the grounds of Saint Joseph Cemetery, beginning at 1 p.m., concluding just prior to the Mass of Christian Burial at 2 p.m. Bishop Frederick F. Campbell will celebrate the Mass and deliver the homily; Bishop James A. Griffin (retired) and priests of the Diocese will concelebrate. Following the Mass Father Nolan will be buried in the priests section at Saint Joseph Cemetery. In lieu of flowers Father Nolan requested that donations be made to the Diocese of Columbus Catholic Charities, 197 East Gay Street, Columbus, 43215.  

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