William Vincent Solan

William Vincent Solan "The Boss" 97 of North Bergen, NJ born February 29, 1928 – died peacefully in his home on July 16, 2025.

William was born in Bayonne, NJ and grew up during the Great Depression. It was during this time that he learned life's hard lessons and developed his strong work ethic. In 1944, during WW II, he enlisted in the United States Army. He performed his military training at The Aberdeen Proving Grounds, Aberdeen Maryland, before shipping out to the Panama Canal Zone as a Weapons Specialist. William served his country honorably and after his military service, began his 40-year career as an auto mechanic at King Lincoln Mercury in Jersey City, NJ. He retired in 1998 after a long successful career, earning various certifications and remaining friends with many of his former customers. For several years, he was also the auto mechanics teacher at North Bergen High School. William was also a member of the Midtown Democratic Club of North Bergen and volunteered with the Scouts.

William Solan is survived by his loving and devoted wife Dorothy (Fonti) of 68 years. They met at a dance in Bayonne in 1955. They were married in 1957 and settled in North Bergen.

Surviving are his children William Solan (Billy) and wife Ivana, Lori Kroeger and husband Greg, Lisa Simcox, and husband Steve. Also surviving are his nine grandchildren, Erik, Jason, Cassie, Tyler, Kendra, Jack, Andrew, Austin, Justin, two great grandchildren, Hudson and Jake and a great granddaughter on the way. William also had six sisters; surviving are Marilyn and Anita (Bubbles). William was raised by the Klarmann family " The Fighting Klarmanns" and is survived by his best friend Richard Klarmann.

As a husband and father, William was a fierce provider and protector of his wife and children. William Solan was also extremely active and supportive of his grandchildren. He thoroughly enjoyed attending countless performances, recitals, games, graduations, and birthday parties, always celebrating their accomplishments with his favorite cranberry and vodka cocktail. William also loved his country, the USA flag and all branches of the United States military. He loved repairing things and do-it-yourself projects. During these projects, you always knew he was "The Boss."

While William worked extremely hard, he also enjoyed countless vacations across the United States including Hawaii several times. He traveled to Europe and often cruised to the Islands with family and friends. He also occasionally enjoyed a visit to the casino to play "Let it Ride." Win or lose The Boss would always say "Oh well, life goes on." He was one of a kind and will be greatly missed by all who loved him.

William will be laid to rest with military honors at Sarasota National Cemetery in Sarasota, Florida.

In remembrance of William Vincent Solan's life, the family humbly requests that any charitable donations be made to Tunnel to Towers Foundation (T2T.org).

Let the family know you care by leaving your condolences, favorite memories and thoughts and prayers on the Tribute Wall.