Gualberto Soler

life story

Gualberto Soler passed away peacefully on May 24, 2025, at the Oldorf Hospice House in Hiawatha, Iowa, surrounded by love and family. He was 85 years old.

Born on July 12, 1939, in Puerto Rico to Margarita Robles and Modesto Soler, Gualberto was lovingly raised by his grandmother, Doña Julia, and his aunt Antonia “Tona” Enriquez. As a child, he cherished the freedom and adventure of island life—riding his bike across the countryside, fishing in the vast ocean, and picking French mangoes, his favorite fruit, right from the trees.

A bright and determined young man, Gualberto carried only a notebook in his back pocket as he pursued his education, dreaming of one day becoming a bookkeeper. However, when life and expectations clashed—his mother wishing him to become a nurse—his independent spirit led him to forge his own path.

At 17, Gualberto moved to the Bronx, New York, where he married Carmen Morges in 1957. Together, they had four children: Minerva, Davis, and two sons named Gualberto Jr., one of whom sadly passed away in infancy. A hardworking provider, Gualberto built a life in the construction industry, working tirelessly at roofing, flooring, fence installation, and anything else that kept him moving.

Throughout his life, Gualberto’s journey took him between Puerto Rico and New York, creating a rich and varied family legacy. He had a daughter, Diana, with Ruth; two children, Gicela Pagan and Aaron Soler, with Maximina (Minnie) Pomales; and a daughter, Sumayah (formerly Walmarie) Soler, with Maria, with whom he finally got to live his dream of working as a bookkeeper.

Eventually, Gualberto made his way to North Aurora, Illinois, to be near his mother and daughter Minerva. There, he found more than a new chapter—he found the love of his life, Mary Cook. Their love story began in 1976, and after many years together, they made it official on November 5, 2001. They welcomed their daughter, Stephanie, in 1977, and from then on, Gualberto’s life centered on his family.

Gualberto worked at Harris-Pine building furniture and then spent over 20 years at C&F Forge in Batavia, Illinois, where he built strong friendships and a reputation for his dedication and work ethic. An early riser and avid fisherman, he loved spending quiet mornings on the Fox River, often with Stephanie at his side. He also enjoyed horse racing, making regular trips to Hawthorne and Mayflower tracks, and later to the OTB in Aurora, always enjoying the excitement of the sport and camaraderie.

But of all the roles he held in life, none brought him greater joy than being a grandfather. Gualberto had deep love for each of his grandchildren, though he spent countless special moments with Aaron and Stephanie’s children—Maddie, Dale, and Charlie—sharing stories, going on fishing trips, and showering them with love and affection. He and Mary made frequent trips to Iowa to visit them and made beautiful memories during summers when Aaron and Stephanie traveled abroad, allowing him to spend extended time with the kids.

Following Mary’s passing on March 24, 2025, Gualberto moved in with Aaron and Stephanie, who lovingly cared for him during his final weeks. They were honored to spend that precious time with him.

Gualberto is survived by his children:

• Stephanie Nuss (Aaron) and grandchildren Madeline, Dale, and Charlie

• Minerva Soler Morges and grandchildren Melissa Coon, Jennifer Alvira (Armandito), Carmen Passley,, Johnathen Rafael, and Mara Martinez

• Davis Soler (Martha) and grandchildren Annette, Rebecca (Joey Santiago), and Jade (Henry Luu Chiem)

• Gualberto Jr. (Elaine) and grandchildren Krystal Bracero, Lorna (Ludin Rivera), Jasmine (Cliff Clark), and Brendan

• Diana and granddaughter Cindy Dume (Patrick)

• Gicela Pagan (Elvin) and grandchildren Kevin Tamayo (Christina) and Elvin Jr.

• Oddie (Doris) and granddaughter Saleen

• Sumayah Soler and her children

He is also survived by numerous great-grandchildren, who will carry forward the legacy of his warmth and storytelling spirit; his sister Ruth Espinoza and brother Julio; step-siblings Thomas Cook (Pam), John Cook (Marlene), Darryl Steele (Antoinette); and many beloved nieces and nephews.

Gualberto also leaves behind his faithful dog, Sammie, who brought him joy and companionship in his final years, especially after Mary’s passing.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 48 years, Mary, grandmother Doña Julia, his father Modesto Soler, his mother Margarita Soler, his son Gualberto Soler, his brother Ralph, and his aunt Antonia Enriquez.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the doctors and nurses at Mercy Medical Center and the compassionate staff at the Oldorf Hospice House, whose love and care during his brief stay were truly extraordinary.

Gualberto Soler lived a life full of love, resilience, and devotion. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew him.

A graveside service for family for Gualberto Soler will be on June 20th, 2025 at Mt. Hope Cemetery in Tremont, Illinois. with a celebration of life in Aurora, IL at a later date.

memorial service

Graveside Service

June 20, 2025

Celebration of life in Aurora, Illinois in August (exact date TBD).

Funeral/Cremation Provider: Davis-Oswald Funeral Home