Jack Leland Solterbeck

Jack Leland Solterbeck March 27, 1932· November 18, 2025
Jack was born in his family farmhouse on Easter morning in Payette Idaho March 27, 1932. He was the youngest of 6 siblings born to Henry and Rosa Solterbeck.
He was preceded in death by his wife of 52 years, Patsy (Ruse) Solterbeck and siblings: Ward Solterbeck, Kathleen Munger, Dorothy Ann Owens, and twin brothers, Mark and Maurice who died in infancy.
Jack and Patsy are survived by their 4 wonderful children: Steven Solterbeck (wife: Debbie), Shaaron Bowerly (husband: Ron), Alisa Gilbertson (husband: Troy) and Timothy Solterbeck. Jack is blessed with 10 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren and one great-grandchild on the way.
Jack grew up on the farm in Payette. He briefly attended the University of Idaho before joining the Air Force In December of 1952. There, he achieved the rank of Staff Sergeant working on B-47 Electronics at Mountain Home Air Force Base. After 4 years In the Air Force, he was honorably discharged and went back to the family farm to work with his Dad and brother as dairy farmers. It was there he met and married the love of his life, Patsy.
Subsequent moves brought the family to Washington State and South Dakota, working for Boeing. Eventually, he ended up settling In Salem, Oregon. He worked as an engineer for the State Highway Department for more than 30 years. After retirement, Jack continued work for FEMA for another 10 years supporting the nation in recovering from a number of different natural disasters.
Jack and Patsy`s final residence was at Salemtowne, where Jack enjoyed many years of daily golfing and weekly poker games.
Jack was a passionate member of the barbershop chorus, the Salem SenateAires, and sang as a baritone in several barbershop quartets.
Jack loved his family dearly and enthusiastically spent time with them. His garage was filled with tools and he expertly knew how to use them all. He loved camping, fishing, boating, barbecuing, and gardening. His family enjoyed the benefits of his home-grown produce!
Jack expressed gratitude often for the Ille God gave him.
A celebration of life will be held November 29th at Salemtowne in their Town Hall Building from 2pm to 4 pm. 2900 Oakcrest Drive NW Salem, Or 97304