Larry D. Solinger of Melcroft passed away December 5, 2018 at Select Specialty Hospital in Latrobe, PA after a period of declining health. His loving wife Carol was at his side.
He was born March 14, 1941 in Oil City, the only child of the late Alfred and Dorothy (Miller) Solinger of Coal Hill. He attended Cranberry schools, graduating in 1959.
He is a veteran of the U.S. Air Force. He was married in Oil City to the former Linda Hartsell and they lived in Texas, Delaware, Titusville and Seneca, Pa. They both served on the board and were instrumental in starting Cranberry Little League in the early 70’s. Larry worked for Cyclops Steel, Metropolitan Life in Titusville and for Bert Klapec, building Justus Park in Oil City in 1971. He attended Broadcasting School and became a radio announcer for both WTIV (Titusville) and WFRA (Franklin). Larry studied Criminology at IUP. He moved to Erie, PA and worked for Babcock Lumber. He then married Sandy Smith, who preceded him in death in 2010. Larry retired in 2011 and moved to Melcroft, PA. He married Carol Barnes-Solinger and she survives. They are raising one of their grandchildren, Caleb Cindric.
Larry enjoyed golf, fishing and hunting. He played the bagpipes. He visited Ocean City, MD annually. He belonged to the fraternity of the Masons. He is survived by 3 grown children; Kim Huegel of Oil City, PA, Jeff Solinger and his wife Robin Emanuele of Bumpass, VA and Nicole Ross of Louisville, KY. He was preceded in death by 2 children Mark Solinger (October 2018) and Robin Fulkerson (2009).
Larry had 8 grandchildren; Casey Bard (Lindsey), Kyle Bard (Kayla), Charkie Huegel, Morgan Huegel, Jacob McKellop, Madyson McKellop, Anna McKellop and Caleb Cindrec.
There are 4 great grandchildren are Chloe and Mason Bard (twins) and Brynnlee and Bria Bard. He is survived by other special friends and relatives.
Condolences may be sent to 276 Melcroft Rd. Melcroft, PA 15462 c/o Caleb and Carol Barnes-Solinger. There will be a celebration of life canoe trip and bonfire in June 2019 in honor of Larry and his love of the outdoors.
