Edward Bella Soltesz Sr

We are deeply saddened with the news of the passing of our husband, father and grandfather, Edward B Soltesz Sr. He passed away peacefully surrounded by family members on the afternoon of January 24, 2014 at the age of 87 in Windham Hospital. Edward leaves behind his loving wife, Claire, two children, Edward Jr. of Storrs-Mansfield, CT and Linda of Carmel, NY; granddaughters Emily and Ashley, great granddaughter Cecilia and beloved sister, Betty Lussier. Edward was born in the Bronx, NY August 21, 1926 to Michael and Elizabeth Soltesz. The family purchased a working farm in Mansfield and relocated there when Edward was 13. He met his wife Claire, worked numerous jobs over the years including as a bellhop at the Nathan Hale Hotel, the American Thread Company and Brand Rex, and started a family. He joined the Connecticut National Guard and served overseas in the 169th Infantry Division in Germany and achieved the rank of Corporal. He moved his family to New York in search of a better life and opportunities for his children. In NY, he worked as a Superintendent at several large residential buildings. Edward moved back to the family farm in 1979 and built his house and settled there with Claire until his remaining days. In addition to work, Edward was a self-taught man, always active and volunteered in his local community and active in many organizations. He was a member of the Holy Redeemer Lutheran Church, VFW, American Legion, Free Masons where he became a 3rd degree Mason, and the local 2meter radio club. The funeral service was held at Potter Funeral Home Sunday January 26th. For an online memorial guestbook, please visit www.potterfuneralhome.com .