Soltesz

Joseph Rockne “Joey” Soltesz, 58, of Zelienople passed away unexpectedly Thursday after performing at an open mic night on Wednesday evening doing what he loved.

Born Oct. 8, 1956, in Ellwood City, he was the beloved son of Eleanor (Soriano) Soltesz of Zelienople and the late Joseph A. Soltesz.

Joey had a genuine love and passion for music as he was a former member of Eugene and the Nightcrawlers.

During his free time, he enjoyed fishing, racing, gardening and especially frequenting Geneva-on-the-Lake, Ohio, and the beach.

Joey will be most remembered for his huge caring heart and his odd sense of humor.

In addition to his mother, he leaves behind to cherish his memory his brother, Jim (Stephanie) Soltesz of Zelienople; his sister, Lou Ann Soltesz of Zelienople; his niece, Vanessa (Jason) Soltesz of Mount Washington in Pittsburgh; his nephew, Jonathon (Tiffany) Soltesz of Zelienople; his special stepson, Brandon Spithaler of Evans City; his great-niece and nephew, Ari and Carter; his maternal uncle and two maternal aunts, Roger (Sophie) Soriano of Beaver Falls, Toots (Bob) Philips of New Brighton and Mary Katherine Soriano of New Castle; his paternal uncle, Julius (Gloria) Soltesz of Missouri; and numerous cousins.

In addition to his father, Joey was preceded in death by his three paternal uncles and aunts, Jim (Maryetta) Soltesz, Andy (Fran) Soltesz and Mary (Lou) Buko; and his maternal uncle, Gene Soriano.

SOLTESZ — The family of Joseph Rockne “Joey” Soltesz, who died Thursday, April 30, 2015, will welcome friends from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. Monday at the Boylan Funeral Home, 324 E. Grandview Ave., Zelienople.A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Tuesday at St. Gregory Catholic Church, 2 W. Beaver St., Zelienople, with the Rev. Lawrence R. Smith as celebrant. Friends please meet at the church.He will be laid to rest at the St. Gregory Catholic Cemetery in Zelienople.If desired, memorial contributions may be made in his honor in support of the St. Gregory Catholic School or to the charity of the donor's choice.Expressions of sympathy may be shared with Joey's family at www.boylanfuneralhome.com.