Jim Solari

Jim leaves behind his beloved wife of 25 years, Christy (Price) Solari; his sister, Andrea Shaw, and her family – husband Harry, son Damon, daughters Koree and Stacee and their many children; and his brother, Brent Solari, and his family -- wife Karli, son Ben and daughter Lauren. Along with his family, Jim leaves countless friends.

Jim was born on June 4, 1944, in Berkley, CA, to Ben and Virginia Solari. His family moved to Bakersfield when he was a little boy, where Jim attended school, graduating from East High in 1962. While attending Bakersfield College, Jim began his long career in banking. The Vietnam War called Jim to service in the Navy from 1965 to 1967. While serving his country, he was exposed to Agent Orange, leading to his personal battle with cancer. Jim was proud to be a veteran and was happy to have the VA stand with him in his final years.

Jim’s banking career took him all over California and as far away as Venezuela, where he spent two years. Starting with Bank of America, Jim worked for several banks as the industry saw many mergers and acquisitions. During his long career, Jim attended the Southern Methodist University School of Banking for an advanced degree in banking. He retired from his last bank, Bank of the Sierra, in 2010.

Jim had a lifelong love of horses, spending many vacations as a youth on both the Tracy Ranch and the Tejon Ranch. The time spent on those ranches was fondly recalled by Jim over his entire life. Jim again became a horse owner in 2000, and his horse, Bianca, gave him great joy. Jim shared his love of horses with Christy, and together they enjoyed their horses and the many wonderful friends they met through a mutual love of equines.

Jim’s fight with cancer was an inspiration to everyone. He was a fighter to the very end, never giving up hope and always keeping a positive attitude and his sense of humor. Jim faced his long illness with admirable grace and bravery. Heartfelt thanks go to Dr. Ashraf who traveled the long journey with Jim, never wavering in his support and compassion. The family would also like to thank Dr. Patel and the entire staff at CBCC.

A visitation will be held at Hillcrest Memorial Park, 9101 Kern Canyon Road, Bakersfield, on Tuesday August 16, 2016, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Services will be in the Hillcrest Memorial Park Chapel on Wednesday, August 17, 2016, at 10 a.m., with burial immediately following at the Bakersfield National Cemetery. A Celebration of Life will follow at Bakersfield Country Club.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the CBCC Foundation, www.cbccusa.com, (661) 862-7145 or to the charity of your choice.