Bjorn Soyland

Bjorn Soyland was born on April 24, 1943 in Sandnes, Norway. He was the third child and youngest son to Erling Soyland and Marit Hova. He lost his battle to cancer on October 27, 2024, and died peacefully at the age of 81 at home with his family.

Bjorn was raised on a rural farm in Southwestern Norway with his three siblings: Åge Soyland, Møyfrid Roth and Audhild Skigelstrand. His brother Åge preceded him in 2023. His sisters and their families still reside in Norway. He was very close to and loved his family dearly.

At the age of 16, his adventures began. Bjorn joined the merchant marines, later returning to Norway to obtain an education as an engineer in Stavenger, Norway. He preferred to work with a wrench, not a pencil and a slide ruler. He spent the majority of his career as a diesel mechanic for Odeco- International offshore oil drilling company for 30 years. His work in the oil fields took him to Texas, South America, Egypt, and Brazil. In the early 2000s, not quite ready to retire, he found himself at Halliburton working in Afghanistan -both a country and a job he thoroughly enjoyed. He retired and moved to Solo, Norway - where he lived for several years, returning to Florida in 2010.

Like a true Viking, he loved the sea and was the strongest man we knew. He was sentimental and had the kindest heart. His hearty greeting and genuine smile could light up a room. He had a love for travel and adventure -with his passport never far from his side. But his favorite trips were always back home to Norway. He loved visiting the Midwest states and Colorado. He came to know Colorado better than most natives -as it also reminded him of home. In addition to his travels, what he loved most of all… was time spent with his kids and grandkids. He would drive for hours as needed -to see his son in Ohio, his daughter in Colorado or just to travel an hour one way to join us on a beach excursion or a multitude of celebrations. He never was too busy for anyone. He was always happy to be there even if the distance was greater than the visit. He could fix anything and was frankly more savvy with his computer than most. His intellectual curiosity was filled with his morning routine of multiple cups of coffee and a traditional Norwegian breakfast as he read countless articles.

He is survived by his six children. Anne Kristine (Kris) Crecelius and Erling Soyland from his first wife, Sadie. Bjorn David Soyland from his second wife, Mary Lane, and his three step children, whom he loved like his own, when he came into their life in 1977 -Otto (Edward) Herrera, Elizabeth (Lisa) Kerr, and Deborah (Debbie) Herrera. He is survived by 18 grandchildren and 20 great grandchildren.

His family meant the world to him.

He was loved greatly and will be deeply missed! His legacy will live in our hearts forever!

In lieu of flowers or cards please make a donation to Community Hospice in Bjorn Soyland’s name.

On behalf of the family, thank you all for the kind expressions of sympathy. The love you have shown has given us great comfort.

Memorial to be held November 22, 2024 at:

Hibernia Baptist Church

7100 US-17

Fleming Island, Florida 32003

Visitation with family at 9 am.

Memorial following at 10 am.