James Soli

James Soli, age 85, of Erie, died Tuesday, January 27, 2026 at the PA Soldiers & Sailors Home. He was born in Erie on February 5, 1940, the son of the late James Soli, Sr. and Mary (Ducato) Soli.

Jim was a graduate of Strong Vincent High School, Class of 1958 and was a member of the U.S. Army having served from 1962 until 1964. Jim was a barber for most of his life, however, he also worked at WSEE TV for 7 years. Jim worked with his partner, Ben Ewiak, for several years, then was self-employed doing roof and gutter repairs. He was happily retired.

Jim enjoyed golfing and reading. In the years at Soldiers & Sailors Home he enjoyed musical entertainment, bingo, and playing rummy with Willa. He especially loved being called “Papa” by his grandson “Lochy.” In his spare time, Jim sang in several 60’s groups, including, Freddie and the Flashbacks, Classmates, and Trinnels. Jim and Willa spent several winters in Florida enjoying friends and the beach.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Lucille Rugare and a brother-in-law, Greg Close.

He is survived by his loving wife, Willa (Close) Soli; two sons, Patrick Soli (Natalie Heberlein) of Erie, and Michael Soli of Las Vegas, NV; two stepchildren, Brent Lochbaum (Jan) of Fort Worth, TX and Laura Truxal (Mike) of Streetsboro, OH; two grandchildren, Skylar Martin (AJ) and Lochlan Truxal; three great-grandchildren; Emory, Indie, and Hayes Martin; one sister-in-law, Marcia Smith of Carlisle, PA; and one brother-in-law, Rick Close (Bonnie) of Carlisle, PA along with several nieces and nephews.

Friends may call at the Burton Quinn Scott Cremation and Funeral Services Inc., West Ridge, 3801 W.26th St. on Sunday February 1, 2026 from 2:00 pm until 4:00 pm at which time Funeral Services will be held. Private burial will be at Gate of Heaven cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the PA Soldiers & Sailors Home Patient Activity Fund, 560 E.3rd St., Erie, PA 16507.

Send condolences at www.BurtonQuinnScott.com.