Wayne Soltwisch Obituary

Wayne Franklin Soltwisch
Born: January 23, 1930
Died: February 27, 2023
Age 93, of Essex, IL passed away peacefully surrounded by his family, Monday, February 27, 2023 at his home. Born January 23, 1930 in Westmont, IL to the late Edwin C. and Grace C. (nee Tepper) Soltwisch. Wayne proudly served with the National Guard from 1948-1952. He retired in 1985 from Ni Gas in Glen Ellyn, IL after thirty-seven years of employment. After retirement, he moved to Essex with his wife, Mary, and they bought a small farm. They both enjoyed raising livestock, growing corn and hay and the country life. He was an active member of the Zion Lutheran Church in Bonfield, IL where he served as an elder. Former president of the Essex Lions Club and longtime member of Meneoka Sports and Recreational Club where he also served on the board. Wayne enjoyed camping, throwing darts, and woodworking. He had a knack to build just about anything from playhouses to clocks. Surviving are five children, Catherine Soltwisch of Essex, Thomas Soltwisch of Aurora, IL, Paul (the late Christine) Soltwisch of Essex, Barbara (the late Jerry) Hoth of Eddyville, KY, and Carol (George) Eichorst of Lisbon, IL; thirteen grandchildren; 25 great-grandchildren; sister, Beverly (John) Vernon of Seneca, IL; sister-in-law, Patricia Soltwisch; and numerous nieces, nephews, and their families. Preceding him in death were his parents, Edwin and Grace; beloved wife of fifty-eight years, Mary Catherine (nee Mallek) Soltwisch, whom he married September 23, 1950 in Westmont, IL; grandson, Timothy Steger; brother, Ronald Soltwisch; and sister, Elaine Niewold. Visitation for Wayne will be at the R.W. Patterson Funeral Home & Crematory, Thursday, March 2, 2023 from 4-8 p.m. Family and friends are welcome to meet at the Zion Lutheran Church in Bonfield, Friday, March 3, 2023 for funeral services at 10:00 a.m. Interment will follow in Zion Lutheran Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in his name may be directed to Zion Lutheran Church: 11478 IL-17, Bonfield, IL 60913. For more information and to visit his online guestbook, please log on to www.rwpattersonfuneralhomes.com or find us on Facebook.