David Peter Solar, 86, of Scottsdale, passed away peacefully Friday, December 14, 2018 in his home surrounded by family. He was born March 11, 1932 in Arnold, PA to Elizabeth and Anthony Solar. He graduated high school, then enlisted in the army and served his country in the Korean War. David then met his wife of 55 years Cornelia “Babe” Rusiewicz and married her on June 4, 1963. He moved himself and his wife to AZ and worked for 32 years for Allied Signal in Purchasing and Logistics.
David had a strong faith in the Roman Catholic Church and was a member of St. Theresa Catholic Church for over 50 years, where he served as an usher and worked for St. Vincent DePaul to help those in need. He was especially devoted to Our Blessed Mother and brought her flowers when he attended morning mass during the week. He loved church, fishing, the ASU Sun Devils and really loved a good steak. David melted your heart with his smile and was known for it, with the nickname “Smiley”. He was a loving and devoted father and husband, that appreciated and loved the simple things in life, especially time with his family.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Elizabeth and Anthony Solar; his siblings, Simon, John, Paul, and Joe Solar, Ann Neil and Mary Zack. He is survived by his brother Richard Solar, his wife, Cornelia “Babe” Solar, his children and their spouses, Philip and Joyce Solar, David and Rachelle Solar, and AnnMarie and Dave Fouquette. David had 6 grandchildren, Matthew, David, Amanda, Nicholas, Mia and Michael.
Visitation will be Wednesday December 19, 2018 from 5:00 -8:00 P.M. with a Rosary at 7:00 P.M. at Whitney & Murphy Funeral Home, 4800 E. Indian School Rd., Phoenix, AZ 85018. A Funeral Mass will be held Thursday, December 20, 2018 at 10:00 A.M. at St. Theresa Catholic Church, 5045 E. Thomas Rd., Phoenix, AZ 85018.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that a donation be made in his name to Hospice of the Valley. He will be missed dearly by all who knew him.
Mary Beth
Such a special man! I will miss my Uncle Dave! Lots of love to you Auntie Babe and cousins!
CINDI WINGFIELD
Dear Ann & Babe,
My deepest condolences to you and your family. Mr. Solar was such a kind and gentle man…I can’t imagine St. Theresa’s without him! One thing is for certain, he’s got an awesome welcoming committee up in Heaven!!
Greg Caster
I am very, very sad to hear the news of Dave’s passing. Prayers for Babe, David, Ann Marie and the whole family.
William Solar
Growing up in western Pa. I have many fond memory`s of Uncle Dave, He was always glad and positive. My deepest sympathies`to my cousins and remaining family.
Nephew William Solar, son of Simon Solar.
Lori Woodward
Babe, Ann and David,
Since I have heard the news of your Dad’s passing my thoughts have turned to so many fun memories with him and all of you. From milestone celebrations, holiday dinners to the many many camping and fishing trips. All of these memories have made me smile. Dave was an amazing, kind and gentle man who was welcoming and fun. I know he will be missed. His spirit lives on in your stories and memories. Prayers for all of you and much love.
Allen Solar
Sincere sympathy to Aunt Babe, Philip, David, AnnMarie and families. Have great memories of Uncle Dave and Aunt Babe’s trips back home, staying with Ann and Bob. Those picnics with lamb, kibbie, Syrian bread and Family were priceless. Uncle Dave, the first of the Solar/Neil westward movement, was a great example for all his nieces and nephews. Uncle Dave has left us an amazing legacy, the importance of Faith and Family. Heaven is a better place now with Dave . Thank you Uncle Dave for the memories.