Joseph Elmer Solano

Joseph “Elmer” Solano Joseph “Elmer” Solano, 83; a retired longshoreman, passed peacefully at home surrounded by family, January 10th, 2017. Joe was born October 31st, 1933, in Ventura, California, to Mary and Joe M. Solano. Throughout his childhood many hardships occurred; most notably the early and untimely passing of his mother. School days were marked by chasing and being chased by girls, and getting himself into what he would later recall as “comical situations” with childhood friends, Rex, Floyd, and Jimmy Kam. At the tender age of 16, Joseph would alter documents to enlist in the army. Following his service in the Korean War, many blessings in his life would occur. The birth of his first of many children, graduation from college, and holding a variety of jobs throughout the years to provide for his family. Regardless of many difficult tribulations and life lessons, his dedication and love towards his family remained unwavering. Joseph was a loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, god-father, confidant, and friend. He was preceded in death by his parents, Mary and Joseph; Sisters, Irene, Sallie Solano, Della, Jean Solano, Viola Parada and Loretta Hernandez. Joseph is survived by his wife and best friend of 40 years, Mary Jane Solano; Daughters and Sons, Robin, Jeffrey, Sean and Tonya, Susie, Scott and Samantha Meisinger, Christopher and Cleo Solano, Stephanie and Jason Murphy; Grandchildren, Sarah, Justin, Nathan and Brandi, Ashley, Caitlyn, Hannah, Americus, Logan, and Jakob; Great-grandchildren Adam and Damian; Brothers and sisters, Donald “Chuck” and Helen Solano, Betty Hernandez and Barbara Solano. Joseph was an avid Gardner, lover of roses, tinkering in the garage, war movies, Planet of the Apes, Greek Mythology, Salted Fruits, piping hot coffee, Cheetos, Pie, and keeping his hair perfectly combed. He enjoyed trips to the local casino, keeping his gas tank over-filled, and keeping the cars in pristine condition. Most importantly, Joe was at his happiest with his wife and family, often interjecting comic relief any chance he had. Always available to lend an ear, a hug, handkerchief or help even if it were beyond his means, these are but a few of the many gestures and only a small glimpse of the loving and dedicated man he was.