William Robert Soltesz, 88, affectionately known as “Salty” passed away August 2, 2010 at a local assisted living facility from natural causes.

     At his request, no immediate services are planned at this time.  Schnider Funeral Home is handling arrangements.  Inurnment of ashes will take place at a later date.

     William was born August 19, 1922 in Great Falls, Montana. He was one of nine children.  His parents were Joseph Louis and Mary Ann (Gabris) Soltesz, who came to the United States from Hungary.  Upon graduation from Great Falls High in 1940, to help his parents with expenses, he worked at The Paris, and Ayrshire Dairy.

     In 1942, he was awarded an aviation appointment for pilot training in the Army Air Corp. He earned his wings in 1944 and during his career in the Air Force, became one of the best flight instructors of his time. He mentored many young pilots also on the importance of recognizing and appreciating their ground and maintenance crews, so pilots could fly safe.   On June 16, 1946 he and Angela Maxine Nicoloff were married in St. Ann’s Cathedral.  Their time together in the Air Force was filled with raising their daughter, continuous travels and assignments, career challenges, wonderful friendships, and the times they could get back “home” for visits.

     He and his wife retired from the Air Force in 1972 and returned here.  Soon after, he opened “The Workshop” behind his home, building furniture, repairing snow blowers in the winter and lawn mowers in the summer.  He was an avid golfer for more than 55 years.

     He and Angela enjoyed winters in Arizona.  It was there his wife passed away in 2003.  He returned to Great Falls year round in 2006 to be closer to family and continued to enjoy a good life.

     He is survived by his daughter, Jill (Steve) Whisler of Great Falls;  grandsons Steven Whisler (Melissa) of Hill AFB, UT and Mark Whisler of Osan AFB, Korea; great grandsons, Brychan, Kynaston, Montana,Dagan; and numerous nieces and nephews. 

     He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers Joseph, John, Steve, Andrew, Anthony; and sisters Helen (Woodward) and Marie( Lingel).

     Memorials can be made to Peace Hospice of Montana, 1101 26th St S, Great Falls, MT 59405.

Condolences may be sent to the family below.

Send Condolences

Date:

8/4/2010

Comments

Jill, and the men of the Whisler family. Wow, he must have been so proud of each of you. No doubt about it, he lives on you. I am thinking of you these days. Susan Good Geise

Date:

8/5/2010

Comments

Jill, Steve, Steven and Mark..... You can be proud and certain that he had such great joy and pride in all of you! Your care of him was loving and constant. He could not have been luckier ~ I am sure he would tell you so. Just one more thanks for allowing us to get to know him. You are being sent good thoughts, hugs and prayers from our family to yours. Always...The Tanners

An Independent, Family-Owned and Operated Funeral Home

Schnider Funeral Home

1510 13th Street South

Great Falls, Montana  59405

Phone:  (406) 727-1368 ~ Fax:  (406) 727-4668

Email:   Schnider Funeral Home