Obituary of William Vern Solon

William Vern "Bill" Solon, 54, passed away on Aug. 8, 2015 at the Chris Jensen Health & Rehabilitation center in Duluth after a courageous battle with lung cancer. He was born in Minneapolis on May 11, 1961, and was given the middle name "Vern" after Vern Gagne, a professional wrestler and close family friend. He grew up in Duluth and graduated from East High School. He spent many years playing hockey and baseball at the Portman recreational center in Lakeside, where he loved hanging out with his friends. His friends called him "Harv" after his father Harvey. After high school, he moved to Leucadia, Calif., where he worked as a finish carpenter, and enjoyed the surf and sun. From Leucadia, he moved to Charleston, S.C., and lived there for a few years before returning to Duluth with his beloved dog Freida. Bill loved working with his hands, and one of his favorite projects was helping his brother build a new home. Bill was known for his quick wit, sense of humor, and his kind and generous heart. He was a true friend to many. Bill is preceded in death by his father, Harvey Solon, and by his maternal and paternal grandparents. He is survived by his loving mother, Margaret Oie; his brothers David Solon and Michael Solon; his sister Stacy Solon Foster, and his five nieces and nephews. The family would like to thank the doctors and staff at St. Luke's Hospital, and Chris Jensen for their generous care and support. CELEBRATION OF LIFE: 5 to 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 14, 2015, in Portman Community Recreation Center, 4601 McCulloch St., Duluth, MN 55804. Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society. Arrangements entrusted to Cremation Society of Minnesota.