Lawrence Arthur Soletti's Obituary
Lawrence ("Larry") Arthur Soletti, (née Lorenzo Arturo Soletti), longtime resident of Oakland, California, passed away peacefully on June 30, 2025, at the age of 85.
Larry Soletti was born in San Mateo, California, the eldest of three children of Antonio and Angela (DaDalt) Soletti. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Barbara (Prather) Soletti, who passed away in 2019 due to complications from Alzheimer's disease. He is survived by his two loving sisters, Diane (Soletti) Wolff and her husband, Larry, and Virginia Soletti; his devoted children, Christina Soletti and Jeffrey Soletti; and his cherished granddaughter, Beatrice Soletti-Schemel.
A proud graduate of the University of Notre Dame, Larry's deep connection to his alma mater endured throughout his life. He served as president of the Notre Dame Alumni Association from 1995-1996 and made countless cherished trips back to South Bend to attend football games—especially the iconic ND-USC rivalry matchups.
Following graduation, Larry served in the United States Navy, continuing his service in both active duty and the reserves until his retirement as Captain in January 2000.
Larry's professional career was equally distinguished: he began at Oakland’s World Airways in 1966, where he met Barbara. Over the years, he held several leadership roles there, including Vice President of Ground Operations, Vice President of Customer Service, and lastly World’s SVP Head of Sales, spending most of the 1990s traveling the world.
After retiring from World Airways, he brought his aviation expertise to AirCharter World, working alongside his former World colleague and partner Richard Lee, an USC graduate, arranging and contracting air transport, primarily to provide airlift for UN agencies, US departments, US and foreign airlines.
Beyond his professional and military accomplishments, Larry was deeply committed to service and community. He gave his time and heart to several charitable organizations, most notably Elizabeth House in Oakland, where his efforts left a lasting impact.
He loved cars and spent some of his happiest days driving his Porsche or Alfa Romeo roaming the roads of California, from Yosemite to the Sierras, the Bay to Santa Cruz. A man of great loyalty, integrity, and warmth, Larry will be remembered for his sharp wit, quiet compassion, and unwavering devotion to family, faith, and the Fighting Irish.
A funeral Mass will be held on Saturday, August 2, 2025, at 11am, at Corpus Christi Catholic Church in Piedmont, California.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Larry's memory to the Alzheimer's Association or Oakland Elizabeth House or charity of your choice.
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