WILLARD SOLTYS

1944 - 2014

It is with the heaviest of hearts that we announce the unexpected passing of Willard Haig Soltys on Wednesday, February 26, 2014 at the age of 69 while traveling in St. George, Utah.
A private burial service was held at the Taber Memorial Garden on Thursday, March 6, 2014.
Relatives and friends were invited to meet with the family at the Italian Canadian Club, 1511 St. Edwards Boulevard North, Lethbridge on Thursday, March 6, 2014 between 1:00 P.M. and 4:00 P.M.
Willard will be lovingly remembered by his children, Pam Ellis (Barry) of Strathmore and her children Jessica and Nick; Monica (Doug) Soltys-Starrett of Strathmore and her daughter Mackenzie; Michele Soltys (Ken) of Red Deer and her children Jonathon and Nataleah.
He was predeceased by his loving wife of forty nine years, Evelyn (née Foote) Soltys in January 2013.
Willard was born in Lethbridge on June 23, 1944. He was one of thirteen brothers and sisters who grew up in the Lethbridge and Hardieville area. As a young man, Willard was always busy finding things to do and supporting himself, his first official job was at the El Rancho where he began working in the kitchen. This led to his career of cooking and ultimately becoming a Red Seal Chef and jobs at Sven Eriksen's as well as the teaching cook at the Lethbridge Correctional Centre. He then became a Correction Officer and was acknowledged with a long service medal after thirty two years with the Government. When not working he loved spontaneous road trips with his girls, traveling the world with Evelyn, golfing, fishing, puttering around the house and gardening. Willard never stopped for long and could often be heard saying, "Let's go!" and he never failed to help out friends and family if ever they needed it. During his retirement he volunteered at many organizations and worked as a caretaker for Lethbridge Public Schools. He will be dearly missed by all those who ever had the pleasure of even a moment of his company.
If friends so desire, memorial tributes in Willard’s name may be made directly to a charity of one’s choice.