CLAYTON, NY — Gertrude M. Solar, 93, Clayton, passed away Saturday, April 27, 2019, at Samaritan Keep Home, Watertown.
Calling hours will be held 4 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, May 1, at Cummings Funeral Service, Inc., Clayton. The funeral service will be held 11 a.m. Thursday, May 2, at the Clayton United Methodist Church with Rev. Earl Lalone, pastor, presiding followed by burial in Clayton Cemetery.
Gertrude was born June 7, 1925, in Alexandria Bay, a daughter of Ulysses G. and Margaret Ellen Giffin Riches, she graduated from Alexandria Bay High School.
She married Charles G. Solar on Sept. 28, 1947, at Alexandria Bay Methodist Church.
She had worked at the Golden Anchor as a waitress and for the Clayton Bathing Suit Factory. She then was a Chart Winder at Graphic Controls, Clayton and retired in 1988 after 17 years at the company. Gertrude was a member of the Clayton United Methodist Church. She was a charter and founding member of the Clayton Volunteer Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary. She was also a member of the 1000 Islands Rebecca Lodge, where she was past Noble Grand and past District Deputy. Gert enjoyed working in her flower garden and spending time with her grandchildren and great grandchildren.
Along with her husband of 71 years, she is survived by her two sons, William C. Solar and his significant other, Krista Kittle, Clayton, and Robert G. Solar, Sr. and wife, Sandy, Lovingston, VA; seven grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren; several nieces, nephews, and cousins; and her dear friends, Leona Smith, Gouverneur, Barbara Holdridge and her family, Michigan, and Bill Metzler, Auburn.
Gertrude was predeceased by a daughter-in-law, Cheryl Solar, three brothers, Harold, Hartford, and James Howard Riches, and a sister, Madeline Riches.
The family would like to extend a special thank you to the 6th Floor staff at Samaritan Keep Home.
Donations may be made in her name to the Clayton United Methodist Church, 324 John St., Clayton, NY 13624.
Online condolences to her family may be posted at www.cummingsfuneral.com
