Stephen Solanka

Stephen Allen Solanka of Vernon, N.J., passed away on Thursday, Feb. 10 with his loving family by his side. He was 79 years old.

Born on May 10, 1942 in Passaic, N.J., Steve was predeceased by his parents Eleanor (Kissel) and Steven Solanka, and his sister Beverly.

Steve had amazing mechanical aptitude. He was everyone’s go-to-guy for questions related to all things mechanical. Steve’s passion for cars drove his lifelong career for auto repair and restoration.

Steve’s love for cars was only exceeded by his love for his family. He leaves behind his beautiful wife, Marilyn. They shared 56 wonderful years of marriage. They were the loves of one another’s lives and raised three wonderful daughters together.

Steve is survived by his adoring wife, Marilyn; his daughters and their husbands, Shirley and Geoffrey O’Shea, Stephanie and Michael Clouse, and Sheri and Patrick Tuite; the pride and joy of his life, his 10 loving grandchildren; his brother Richie and wife Barbara; and his nieces, Heather Solanka, and Shannon and husband Michael Button.

May Steve rest in peace and rise in glory.

Visitation for Steve was Tuesday, Feb. 15 at the Ferguson-Vernon Funeral Home. A funeral service was held Wednesday, Feb. 16 at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Episcopal Church of the Good Shepherd in Wantage, N.J. or Glenwood Pochuck Volunteer Ambulance Squad.