Solski, Nicolas

SOLSKI, Nicolas - We celebrate the life and mourn the loss of Nicolas Solski who passed away peacefully at home on October 4th, 2009 with his loving wife and children by his side. Born in Coniston in 1925, Nick began his career with INCO at the Coniston Smelter at the age of 17, retiring as a Maintenance Foreman at the Iron Ore Recovery Plant in Copper Cliff after 40 years of dedicated service. He was a man of few words, with a wry sense of humour, a strong work ethic, an unshakable belief in family, and the amazing ability to repair, create or construct anything he put his mind to. He had a long and rich life, playing the snare drum in the Coniston Band as a teenager, curling at the Coniston Curling Club where he was one of very few who could claim an “8 ender“, enjoying the peace and tranquility at his camp, hunting, fishing and snowmobiling, and in his retirement years getting away from the snow and the cold to winter in Florida. Beloved husband, best friend and confidante for 58 years to Elsie (Kotyluk). Dedicated father and teacher to his children Donna (Michael Chyz predeceased) and Bruce. Geegee was very proud of his only grandchild Kira Chyz. He will also be missed by his canine companions, Charlie and Shadow. Predeceased by his parents, Joseph and Annie Solski and his siblings Mike (Irene Horrick), Mary (Nick Skakoon), Jessie, Bruno, and Peter, and inlaws Bud and Edith (Kotyluk) Savage. Survived by inlaws Stella Solski, Ed and Marilyn Kotlyuk, Bob Kotyluk (Judy predeceased), Lovey Kotyluk, and all of his nieces and nephews. A mass to celebrate his life and his intense catholic faith will be held at his life long parish The Church of the Holy Trinity on Thursday, October 8, 2009 at 11:00 a.m. If desired donations may be made in Nick's name to Maison Vale INCO Hospice or a charity of choice. Arrangements entrusted to the JACKSON AND BARNARD FUNERAL HOME. (Friends may gather at the church after 10:30 a.m. Thursday). To light a memorial candle, flowers, donations or messages of condolences available on-line at www.lougheed.org