Patrick J. Solano, died peacefully at home, surrounded by his wife and family, on January 23, 2021. Born in Pittston on June 22, 1925, he was the son of the late Carlo and Mary Aita Solano.
In 1942, Pat graduated from Pittston Township High School and was drafted by the US Army Air Corps, along with his brother Nick. He served as a flight engineer on 23 combat missions with the Eighth US Air Force Heavy Bombardment Group, aboard the B-17 Flying Fortress. For his service he was awarded the Group Presidential Citation, the Air Force Medal with two Oak Leaf Clusters, and the European Combat Theatre Medal with two Bronze Stars.
Following WWII, Pat embarked on a lifetime of public service at both the local and state levels. He served in the administration of nine governors and was frequently recognized for being a trusted advisor, a voice of reason, and a unifying force in the Pennsylvania Capitol.
As an avid outdoorsman, Pat was particularly proud of his service to the environment. He served as the Deputy
Secretary of the Department of Environmental
Resources and the Acting Secretary of the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. In 2013, the environmental learning center at Frances Slocum State Park was named in his honor.
Pat was a proud member of the Wyoming Rod & Gun Club and the founder of the Oak Ridge Sportsman’s Club. He always reminded everyone at the cabin that the most important thing about a hunting trip was the camaraderie.
A lifelong resident of Pittston Township, Pat grew up in Cork Lane, where he met his future wife, Marie Nocito. Married in 1954, Pat and Marie enjoyed a marriage rich in love and family traditions. The Solano house became the gathering place for weekly Sunday family dinners; Pat was always up for a card game, a party, or “a little something.”
In addition to his parents, Pat was preceded in death by brothers, Nick and Frank Solano, and sisters Mary Gubitoso and Carmel Insalaco.
He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Marie (Nocito) Solano; daughters Mary Pat Augello and husband, Michael; Catherine Solano; Anita Bubul and husband, Thomas; Rita Zarra and husband, James; Liz Blaskiewicz and husband, Thomas; and Anne Branley and husband, Michael; eleven grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, numerous nieces and nephews, and many cherished friends.
The Solano Family would like to thank Hospice of the Sacred Heart for the exceptional care given, especially by Sara and Krissy. They also extend their gratitude to Dr. Charles Manganiello, Dr. Michalene Torbik, and Dr. Bruce Saidman.
Memorial donations may be made to Hospice of the Sacred Heart, 600 Baltimore Dr., Wilkes-Barre; St. Joseph Marello Parish, 237 William St., Pittston; Medical Oncology Associates Prescription Assistance Fund, 382 Pierce St., Kingston; or LCCC Veteran-Military Scholarship, 4525 Education Park Dr., Schnecksville.
Private funeral services will be held at the convenience of the family with a Mass of Christian Burial in St. Joseph Marello Parish, Pittston and interment in Mt. Olivet Cemetery, Carverton with full military honors. Arrangements are entrusted to Adonizio Funeral Home, LLC, 251 William Street, Pittston.