Ronald Martin Solan

LAKEVILLE — Ronald Martin Solan, 86, of Porter Street, passed away Aug. 9, 2022 at his home. He had been dealing with both Covid and cancer. He was a beloved, lifelong member of the community and loving uncle, cousin, and friend to many. He was dearly loved by his family and his intrepid spirit will always be an inspiration.

Ron was born April 5, 1936, in Lakeville, the son of the late Martin and Mary Rocknack Solan. Ron graduated from Salisbury School in 1954 and later graduated from the School of the Museum of Fine Arts at Tufts University.  Ron was a member of the U.S. Army Special Forces serving as a Green Beret. He served in Vietnam and many places throughout the world. He reached the rank of Master Sergeant during his military career. Upon his retirement, Ron returned to the Northwest Corner where he lived as an artist and skilled craftsman.

He was a morning fixture for years at On the Run Coffee Shop, and an avid reader with a love of history that made him a valued teammate at trivia later in the day.

He is survived by his nephews John and Stephen Lubianetsky, his cousin Richard Solan, and many great nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his sisters Agnes Solan, Rose Blass, and Lorraine Lubianetsky.

Ron was also the longtime partner of the late Sally Ongley Northrop of Salisbury and an important part of the lives of her two sons, Matthew and Michael. Michael’s 2015 book “Tombquest: Valley of Kings” was dedicated to Ron. It read, “For Ronald Martin Solan: Artist, Soldier, and Porter Street Irregular.”

A wake will be held at the Kenny Funeral Home in Sharon on Friday, Aug. 19 from 4 to 7 p.m. A memorial service will be held at St. Mary Church in Lakeville on Saturday, Aug. 20 at 10:00 a.m., followed by the burial at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Salisbury with full military honors.

Memorial donations can be sent either to the Lakeville VFW at 19 Brook St. Lakeville, CT 06039 or to the Salisbury Volunteer Ambulance Service at PO Box 582, Salisbury, CT 06068.