Bill Solf

William George "Bill" Solf, 86, passed away on March 11, 2025. He was born in Winnett, Montana to Joseph and Anna (Kleiman) Solf on August 22, 1938, the sixth of ten children. When you first met Bill, he was a rugged, handsome cowboy and the epitome of a Montana Rancher.
On November 29, 1958 Bill married Willa Raundal and with that union, three children were added to the family; Marge in 1959, Ron in 1962, and Barb in 1964. He and his brother, Leo began ranching in 1963 when their dad turned the ranch over to them.
Though the ranch was first and foremost on his mind, Bill had many interests. He was a pilot and loved to fly, whether to check dams and spot cows or just take someone on a scenic ride around the county. He was a mechanic and enjoyed dirt work. Bill was a self-taught musician. He played the five string banjo, guitar, and mandolin. Bill served on the Petrolia Irrigation District Board, the Winnett Rodeo Club, and as a Petroleum County Commissioner.
Bill is preceded in death by his parents; son, Ron; mother-in-law and father-in-law; son-in-law, Gary Flint; brothers, Charlie and Leo; brothers-in-law, Ron Olson, Norm Wangseng, and Chuck Rude; and sister-in-law, JoAnn Clark.
He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Willa; daughters, Marge Flint and Barb Solf; five sisters, Rose Wangseng, Joan (Al) Sampson, Alice (Ralph) Schwartz, Clara (Tom) Siroky, and Lurene Olson; two brothers, Joe (Elaine) Solf and Frank (Cindy) Solf; three sisters-in-law, Mary Rude, Nancy Solf, and Darlene Solf; five grandchildren, Kevin (Lindsay) Flint, Megan Flint, Joe Solf, Jace (Jennifer) Solf, and Josh Solf; three great-grandchildren, Dallon Flint, LeaBelle Flint, RM "Ronald Michael" Solf, and Wrye Miller; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.
A time of viewing will be held at Creel Funeral Home, Tuesday, March 18th, 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. with the rosary prayed at 6:00. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Leo's Catholic Church on Wednesday, March 19th, 10:00 a.m. with Rite of Committal at the Winnett Cemetery. Following the graveside service, lunch will be shared at the Petroleum County Community Center.
Arrangements are under the care of Creel Funeral Home. Bill's family and friends can share memories and condolences at www.creelfuneralhome.com