HUGHESTOWN, Pa. — Pat Solano called Luzerne County home, but he is being remembered by lawmakers across the commonwealth for a life marked by his service to his state and the country.
Pat Solano started his life of public service when he was a teenager, serving in the Army Air Corps during World War II.
Newswatch 16 spoke to him this past September on the 75th anniversary of VJ day.
"When the war ended, none of us were 21. Just think about that. None of us were 21. Look at the kids today. I got my grandkids, and I give them my, I joke with them, and I tell them, 'Look what I did, and you guys can't start the lawnmower.' But it was a different time," said Solano.
Solano would win two Bronze Stars before his 21st birthday, but he is best remembered for his service after the war in state government.
Solano would work for 11 Pennsylvania Governors and even helped create the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.
Former Governor Tom Ridge described Solano as "legendary" in Northeastern Pennsylvania.
"Pat was admired and respected by leaders on both sides of the aisle, which was what made Pat so effective as a public servant and in-demand as a counselor," wrote Gov. Ridge in a statement.
While Solano was a well-known strategist for state Republicans, he was something else exceeding rare, he was a friend to Democrats as well.
"He was a man who attracted admirers from all corners. Best of all, he always told you the truth, and he put Northeastern Pennsylvania first," wrote Congressman Matt Cartwright in a statement.
Solano was 95-years old.
