William "Bill" Soltero Sr.

William (Bill) Soltero, Sr. of Phoenix, AZ, went to be with our Lord on
September 5, 2004, at the age of 75. His loving family was at his bedside. He was born in Globe, AZ on November 25, 1928 where he lived until moving to Phoenix in 1963. He served his country in WWII and in the
Korean Conflict. In 1953 Bill became a member of Laborers' Local #383 and started
working in construction, thus beginning his long career with the Union. In 1962 he became a Business Agent, and in 1972 became Business Manager/Secretary Treasurer of Laborers' Local #383. Under his direction, the Laborers' became the largest and strongest union in the state. In 1968 Bill met Cesar Chavez, founder of the United Farm Workers Union, they were immediately drawn together because they shared the same dream that some day this country would have a Workers Federal Safety and Health Law, one that would be far reaching and educate employers about the human responsibilities toward giving all workers a safe place to work, those on construction sites, in the fields, in factories, and all work places. Bill and Cesar became the closest of friends and worked together to make their dream come true. Bill helped many people through out his life; his only reward was the great satisfaction he got in knowing he was there for anyone in need. All who were touched by this wonderful man, and there are many, have a story to tell. He enjoyed visiting the White Mountains, fishing, the ocean, and politics. When he retired in 1985 he remained active in the union and politics but also decided it was time to realize his dream of visiting Mexico. He and his son Billy lived part time in Mexico where they both made lifelong friends. He will be deeply missed by those friends. He is preceded in death by his parents Carolina and Roberto Soltero, Sister Gloria Hanna, and beloved son William Soltero, Jr. Bill is survived by his daughters, Erlynda Horta (Johnny) of Globe, Esther Compton (Chris) of Litchfield Park, Monica Soltero (JoePaul) of Gilbert, and Myranda North (Stuart) of Paradise Valley. Sons, Richard Soltero (Nicky) of Phoenix, Troy Thielbar (Brenda) of Phoenix, and his precious youngest son Billy Soltero. Sisters Caroline Redondo (Henry) and Ernestine Grijalva (Fred), brothers Robert, John (Julia), George, Victor (Mary) all of Tucson, and Frank of California and cousin Ray Soltero. Twenty-three grandchildren, thirty-two great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. We will miss our dad and friend more than words can express. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made, to help raise his son Billy, at any Wells Fargo Bank branch. A celebration of Bill's life will be held on Saturday, September 11, 2004, at Laborers' Local #383, 512 W. Adams, Phoenix, AZ, in the Soltero Auditorium. Visitations will be from 10:00 a.m. to Noon, with services beginning at Noon. Arrangements entrusted to East Resthaven Park.