Final Salute

John W. Solliday **May 6, 1928 – December 29, 2024** John W. Solliday, a long-time resident of Lansdale, Pennsylvania, passed away peacefully at the age of 96 surrounded by his loving family. Born on May 6, 1928, in North Wales, PA, John lived a remarkable life filled with love, laughter, and service. At the young age of 17, John enlisted in the U.S. Navy, where he proudly served as a Navy Seabee stationed in Okinawa, Japan, aboard the ship *Otterstetter*. He received an honorable discharge and carried the values of duty and dedication throughout his life. A proud member of the American Legion, John remained deeply connected to his military roots. In 1949, John married the love of his life, Lillian B. Hartman. Their 68 years of marriage were a testament to enduring love and commitment. Together, they raised six children: Bonnie Solliday of Chalfont, PA; Deborah Hopson of Coopersburg, PA (Ron Hopson, deceased); John Solliday Jr. of Boiling Springs, SC; Jeff Solliday(Jeffrey Papa)of Chesterfield, VA; Sherry DeHart (Mark DeHart, deceased)of New Ringgold, PA; and Tracey Beck (Daniel Beck) of Leland, NC. John was a devoted family man, cherishing every moment spent with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. His legacy lives on through his eight grandchildren-John Tyschyk, James Lockard Jr., Jonathon Solliday, Patrick Solliday, Brooke DeHart, Laura DeHart, Cole Beck, and Mason Beck-as well as 10 great-grandchildren and five great-great-grandchildren. John was one of four siblings, born to Elizabeth and Uriah Solliday. He is survived by his sister, Elizabeth Fuller, and is predeceased by his brother Robert Solliday and sister Dorothy Johnston. An avid sailor, John found joy and serenity on the water. He owned several sailboats in the New Jersey Bay area and loved taking his family on sailing adventures, creating cherished memories that will forever be treasured. Professionally, John wore many hats, but his most recent role was as a District Maintenance Manager, a position that showcased his exceptional mechanical skills and dedication to hard work. He was also a gifted craftsman, known for his hobby of creating beautiful furniture and sharing his talents with those around him. John will be remembered as a man of boundless humor and a playful jokester whose laughter was as contagious as his love for life. His warmth and wit brightened the lives of everyone he met. John’s family and friends take comfort in knowing he is reunited with those who preceded him in death and in the memories of a life well-lived. A celebration of John’s life will be held for the immediate family. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in his memory to the Alzheimer’s foundation of America 322 8th Ave., Arrangements are entrusted to Huff & Lakjer Funeral Home, Lansdale
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Published by WFMZ-TV 69 News on Dec. 31, 2024.