Patricia Soltisiak

Born to the late William and Mary Ann (O’Neill) Heinicke, Patricia was a woman of deep compassion, intelligence, and curiosity. She graduated from Port Chester High School in 1958 and went on to attend the Greenwich Hospital School of Nursing, where she became a Registered Nurse in 1961. In recognition of her dedication and skill, she received the prestigious Helen Meehan Award for Excellence in Nursing. Patricia later earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Connecticut, further reflecting her commitment to learning and service.

Patricia devoted her professional life to caring for others and her personal life to caring for her family. In 1979, she played a meaningful role in helping to develop and consult on Emergency Medical Procedures for Mariners, contributing to improved care for boaters and others on the water.

She was married in 1987 to her beloved husband, Gerald “Jerry” Soltisiak, with whom she shared a life full of adventure, learning, and love. Patricia embraced new experiences alongside Jerry, including hunting and the processing of wild game- new skills she enjoyed learning. Together, they owned a boat and cherished their summers sailing, including annual trips to Fire Island. In addition to boating, Pat and Jerry enjoyed travelling, with highlights including Sweden, California, Newfoundland, and the Florida Keys. Pat was also a devoted member of St. Stephen Parish, strengthening her faith and donating her time to the parish.

Above all else, Patricia was devoted to her family. She is survived by her husband, Gerald “Jerry” Soltisiak, her stepson, Ryan Soltisiak, her stepdaughter, Michele, her daughters, Cori Payne and Joan MacDonald, son Douglas Patrick, her beloved dog, Poppy, grandchildren Tyler and Taylor Payne, and her sister, Ann Marfia. She was predeceased by her son, Matthew MacDonald.

Pat kept with her a letter from a patient, which held great importance to her: “Dear Pat, I was down in the dumps here waiting to go to Shoshana’s funeral. It is also her birthday. It really pepped me up quickly when saw your beautiful card and beautiful words!!! It’s so overpowering!!...To receive this from you who has dedicated yourself to so many thousands of patients!!! I always felt relieved whenever you were on duty with Shoshana! My daughters and I are very proud of your words- and Shoshana is too!”

Friends and family are invited to visitation on Monday, February 16, 4 – 8pm at Spadaccino & Leo P. Gallagher Community Funeral Home, 315 Monroe Turnpike, Monroe, CT. Funeral Mass will be celebrated Tuesday, February 17 at 10:30am at St. Stephens Parish, 6948 Main St, Trumbull, CT. Interment will be privately held. Patricia will be remembered for her strength, her generosity of spirit, her love of learning, and the unwavering care she gave to those fortunate enough to know her.