"Just now found out by a random search on Google. Doug's photo jumped off the screen at me right away, I followed the link to this page. Even though I hadn't seen him since High School graduation I immediately recognized the face and knew the name. Doug was a wonderful human being and I know he is missed by his family and friends. My belated condolences to you!"
In loving memory of
Doug Soleta
June 10, 1957 - January 25, 2011
Douglas Edward Soleta was born on June 10, 1957, in Windom, Minnesota to the late Lennie Francis and Katherine Ada (Schaffer) Soleta. He was baptized on July 7, 1957, at the Lutheran Church of Our Savior in Windom and later confirmed in that same church. Doug received his education in the Windom Public Schools; graduating in the Class of 1975.
On April 8, 1989, Doug was united in marriage to Candace Kay Carter. After marriage, they farmed in Great Bend Township, Cottonwood County where they were raising their three children, Samuel, Jessica and Eric. Doug loved farming all of his life and helping others at anytime and place. His family meant everything to him, especially his wife and children. He enjoyed 'summits' and tire rides with his family and friends, bonfires on the farm, visits at the Wilder Elevator-"the wireless" and his custom snowplowing jobs through the years.
On Tuesday, January 25, 2011, Doug was involved in a farm accident on his farm in rural Windom that took his life at the age of 53 years.
Doug was a member of the Lutheran Church of Our Savior in Windom where he was involved with the Orphan Grain Train.
Doug is survived by his wife of twenty-one years, Candy Soleta of Windom; three children, Samuel Douglas, Jessica Kathryn and Eric Lennie Soleta all at home in Windom; one brother and one sister, David Soleta and his wife, Monica of Eden Prairie; Charlene Woizeschke and her husband, Douglas, of Windom; step-mother, Pat Soleta of Windom; two step-brothers and one step-sister, Stan Wendland and his wife, Jodi, of Windom; Keith Wendland and his wife, Debbie, of Lynchburg, VA; Kathy Morphew and her husband, Dan of Windom; mother-in-law, Claudette Carter of Jeffers; five nieces; three nephews; four great-nieces; and three great-nephews.
Doug is preceded in death by his parents, Lennie & Katherine Soleta; & father-in-law, Ivan Loy Carter.
Blessed be the memory of Doug Soleta.
Memorials are preferred to either the Lutheran Church of Our Savior or the American Cancer Society.
Tributes
"Char and Family. Jon and I are so sorry to hear of your loss, we just heard of it today. You are in our thoughts."
"I loved the way Doug laughed and when he danced his belly would shake like Santa Claus. He was a true friend just like Candy. I admired how dedicated he was to his family-his eyes lit up whenever he talked about his family. He helped me out alot in my life and I will miss him immensely."
"Doug was the man that I wished I had been. He was like a son to me."
"My Heartfelt condolences go tothe Soleta Family Mark Curry Waco NE"
"Dear Candy & family - so sorry we were not able to be there for you. What a tragic loss. Doug was that perfect guy - just so real, common, and there to help anyone. I was happy to see him last at my sister's birthday last October. How special that he would be there. Of course you must have a milllion more memories, than I do. Hang tight to those, and know how special he was - to neighbors and friends. We hold you and the children in our hearts, and prayers. Love & Hugs, Wanda (schoolmate of Doug's) & Bob Lange P.S. Loved the pictures you posted. HUGS again...."
"Candy and family - I remember Candy as a toddler running around chasing all of her siblings as we all played together. I did not know Doug but from what I've read, he seemed like a fine man who loved his family. I am so sorry for your loss. My prayers go out to you and your family, Candy. Jan Determan"
"I am sorry to hear about your news, my thoughts are with you all. I know that the whole neighborhood feels for you."
"I was so sorry to hear about Doug. We only met in person a few times but I could tell he would be a great guy to know. We spoke more often on the phone about the land he was renting from me. I am not a farmer but I could tell by his reputation that he would be a a good steward of my land. I hope the outpouring of all these tributes can serve as some consultation to his family and friends in their grief. My heart goes out to them."
"To Soleta family-sorry about your loss-Doug was always great to be around-he will be deeply missed."
"Family of Doug Soleta: I"m devastated by the loss of Doug in this tragic accident. Know that you are in our prayers for comfort and peace. God's blessings on all of you! "
"Dear Candy & family, There are not adequate words to express the sudden & untimely death of Doug. We will miss seeing him in church. He was such a fine Christian father. Take comfort in knowing that Doug is with his Savior & let Jesus be your comfort and guide in the days ahead."
"My thoughts are prayers go out to your family. God Bless you all. "
"With great sarrow, I learned of the tragic death of my step nephew, Doug Soleta. My deepest sympathy to his family."
"To the Soleta family-I am so saddened to hear of Doug's passing. I was a classmate of Doug's and went through the years of Sunday school and confirmation classes with him. I remember a quiet and gentle guy with a shy smile and a twinkle in his eye. You knew there was that humor lying in wait. May he rest in the arms of the Lord and may your memories bring you comfort."
" Candy,Sam,Jessica,Eric and Char, I am so sorry for the sudden loss of Doug. He was an all around great person. I will never forget all of the times i delivered fuel to the farm and Doug was always there to sit in the truck and talk. He always had a positive outlook on everything and he loved his family so much. The last time we talked was on Monday when i was at the farm. I will always remember the time i had with Doug and will miss him. He was one of a kind."
"Our condolences to you Candy and the rest if the family, Doug was a real "teddy bear". I remember back in the old'n days he had a nick name "brown", never knew why but he always laughed when I called him "brown". You will be missed! "
"I remember Doug from our school days, he had a wonderful friendly spirit then and I can tell from all of these tributes that he hadn't changed. To Candace, I simply can't imagine what you and your family are going through. I know that God has a plan, we don't always know or understand, we just have to have faith in Jesus Christ, accept and obey and he will comfort you. John 14:1-3 ... Let not your heart be trouble ..."
"We were shocked and sorry to hear of the tragic of Doug. Although we did not know hime well we wish to express our sincere sympathy to you and all of your family. We pray for God to be with you and comfort you "
"I am so sorry to hear the news of Doug's passing. My sympathy and prayers are with the family of Doug."
"Candy and the Family of Doug Soleta: I am Sorry to hear of Dougs Passing.My heartfelt sympathy goes out to you and the extended Soleta Families. "
"Candy-Family I am sorry to hear the loss . I keep you Your family in our prayers carol"
"Candy, Sam, Jessica and Eric, We hope that you are feeling the love and prayers of so many who are grieving Doug's passing with you. My husband (who grew up on a farm) will always be thankful to Doug for recruiting his kids to rock pick. Lauren will always remember the one summer Doug would get all the kids out there and as soon as they were out, the rain would start! Lots of work, but lots of fun, friendship and good memories too. We love you but more importantly, the Lord loves you! May He be your strength and comfort! "
"Candy and Char and families. Our deepest sympathies. Doug was a classmate. He was always quiet, but had fun with him. May God comfort you in this time of loss."
"Candy, Jessica, Sam, and Eric We were shocked to hear about Doug. Words can not express our sorrow for your loss. Remember you have many friends that are willing to help you, lean on them and each other to ease this time of grief and to remember the good times. You are in our prayers. "
"Candy and kids, We are so sorry for your loss. Doug was a great guy and he will be greatly missed. Stay strong and keep all of the memories alive."
"Candy,so sorry to hear of Doug's passing.My prayers go out to you and your entire family."
"Candy and family - we were so shocked to hear about Doug - how tragic!! Doug was such a kind and loving husband, father and friend. He will be missed. You and your families are in our thoughts and prayers. You can see by all the tributes the many people that Doug touched. God be with you and support you."
"Candy, Sam, Jessica and Eric, Our thoughts and prayers to you and your family. May you find comfort through your faith, family and friends. "
"Candy and family our deepest sympathy to you at this difficult time in your loss. May God's daily presence minister to your every need. "
"I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers to i will help Eric cheer up to i will pray for your family to "
"i well keep you in my thoughts and prayer and i will help Eric cheer up to i am also a friend of Eric S alot af od people are sad in my class and the classes to we made you and Eric cards :("
"Candy and family, so sorry to hear the news about Doug. There are no words to express about all of this. He is in a good place now. If there is anything we can do please give us a call. Remember all the good times and laughters that you shared with him. It will pull you through the tough times. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and the kids."
"Char and family Our deepest sympathy to all of you. Cherish and hold all those special memories in your heart and may God be with all of you in your sadness ahead."
"My favorite thing about Doug is that he let me and Eric play and let us drive his John Deere Gator and he will be missed a whole lot :("
"Candy, Char, and families. My sympathy goes out to you at this time. I enjoyed my times with Doug. I remember after the two of you got married, and started a family, what a devoted husband and father he was. May God be with during this time."
""
"Our prayers go out to you, loosing a loved one is difficult, but when it is sudden and tragic it is even harder. Hold on to your memories and each other, that is what will get you through the months ahead. Doug was an awesome person and will be greatly missed."
"So sorry for your loss! I met Doug a few times at the Wilder elevater and he seemed like a really nice guy. If you ever want someone to talk to please feel free to call me. I also lost a husband way to soon and know the pain you are going through Laurie Behrens"
"Candi, Sam, Jessie, Eric, Char and Doug's entire family: We are sooooooo sorry for your loss! It was a total shock to hear the news of Doug's passing! He will certainly be missed by MANY!!! If there is anything we can do, please don't hesitate to call. We are thinking of you all and praying that time will heal the pain...hang onto the good memories to help get you through this difficult time!"
"My condolences to Candy I feelt so sad when I heard the news from Dave Yesterday, I remember he was a very kind and hospitable when we visit the farm. I really enjoy having a long conversation of how Dave and I meet at his place. My condolences to the children you all are in our prayers."
"Candy, Char and families. Please know that you are thought of often. Try to take comfort in God's promise of Heaven for wonderful people like Doug. Take care and call if you need anything!"
"The thing i'll miss about Doug is he's nice 'n' sweet and he calledme Ice Chicken amd i called him Ice Chicken 2 i miss him already but when i visited Dougs house i'm also Friends with Eric i started crying i miss him already to my friend Eric that he tried tobe happy and playful on the outside but in the inside i know that he's really sad he was a daddie's boy! :( feel sorry."
"Candy and family, we are thinking about you and praying for God's comfort during this difficult time. "
"Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time...."
"Our community has lost a good man. Char, I met your brother Doug through his and your involvement with the Cottonwood Co. Relay for Life. Every year Doug contacted me in order to purchase luminaries early enough for the kids to decorate for their loved ones. Candy, Sam, Jessica and Eric you will hear many stories and share fond memories over the next several days. Cherish and remember these for support during your grieving journey. Prayers are coming out to you from many places, including our hearts."
"Doug is my friend and a good guy why did it have to be his take care Soleta family your friend Ice chicken and to my best friend ERIC"
"Candy & family, Larry and I wish to extend our deepest sympathy on Doug's passing. He was such a gentleman and a true farmer in every sense of the word. Larry would visit with Doug at Jeffers Implement when their paths crossed and boy did they know how to shoot the ... well, let's say breeze! He will truly be missed by your family especially, but by so many friends that truly thought the world of him! God bless all of you at this difficult time."
"Candy and family: So sorry to hear of your loss. You all are in our thoughts and prayers. God be with you all in this sorrowful time."
"To Doug's family, I am so sorry for your loss. I grew up in the Soleta neighborhood, and what a wonderful bunch of people. Candy and kids, know that we are thinking of you."
"I have very fond memories of Doug from High School. He was a quiet, kind, respectful young man with a sense of humor that helped get me through some classes! ( a sense of humor with a touch of mischief!) Our paths have rarely crossed since then but these tributes tell me he was still that Doug, someone you truly enjoyed spending time with! My sympathy to you in the loss of your husband, father and brother."
"Doug was a good guy and my good friend. I will miss smile!"
"Candy and kids, From all of us at the shop, our deepest sympathies to you and your family. We will truly miss his visits here, especialy seeing who could come up with the one-liners first ! We are proud to have known him as a loyal customer and a friend. His kindness and gentle heart will be missed by all who knew him. Cherish the memories."
"Candy, I was so shocked to learn of Doug's passing. Our prayers are with you and your family for strength as you grieve. We are here...tell us what we can do for you. I am glad as many are that Doug crossed our path during our life time...he was such a good person. "
"Candy and family - We are at a loss for words at this most difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Please let us know if there is anything we can do to help."
"Candy & Char & families....Paul and I are at a loss of words.....we are still in shock of this tragedy.......our Prayers and thoughts go out to you all. Doug was a wonderful husband, father, friend and cousin to Paul....He will be greatly missed by all.....know that he will be forever in our hearts and is watching his family from above...R.I.P. Doug"
"To the whole Soleta Family: Doug will be Greatly missed. What a terrific guy! Let the Happy memories and the strength of family and friends help you through this difficult time. Our hearts and prayers go out to you, now and always."
"Candy, Sam, Jessica and Eric - our prayers are with you. Doug was a great person. I could tell he really loved his kids - he was a great father. Let us know if you need anything. Even if its just needing a break... Eric is always welcome to come and play with Halen."
"So sorry to hear about Doug. I have known him a long time and he was always a fun loving,friendly guy that would go out of his way to help anyone. He will be deeply missed. My deepest sympathys to the whole family."
"Nicole & Family - At this tragic time You and Your Family are in our thoughts. Your Friends and Co-workers from Citi. "
"Char and family: We are all thinking of you during this difficult time. "
"Candy and Family: We are at a loss of words. We are all thinking of you during this difficult time. "
"Char and Family: All of us are thinking of you during this difficult time."
"Candy, Sam, Jessica and Eric you have our deepest sympathy. Doug will be deeply missed. We will miss his great smile every Sunday in Church. God Bless all of you and just take one day at a time and let God lead your path. Our prayers our going out to your family. "
"Dear Candy, Sam, Jessica and my special friend Eric, All that you can do when you loose someone as unique as your Dad and husband his to etch every memory in your heart and mind so you can bring back what he has given to you again and again. Doug was an example ALL things good - keep his memory close. Love you guys"
"we are so sorry for your loss. No words can ever express our sadness and how much you all mean to us. If there is anything you need please remember we are a phone call away. May Gods grace sustain you at this time and in the future. Sam & Betty Burton and Family"
"My sincere sympathy to you Candy, children and all of Doug's family. "
"Candy & kids, Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. "
"We were so very sorry to hear about Doug. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. God's peace and comfort to you."
"Candy, Sam, Jessica and Eric there just arn't enough or the right words to express how we feel for you during this time of sorrow. Please know you are not alone-The thoughts, prayers and love of others who care, are with you always. He was a special little guy who grew up to be a wonderfull loving, caring and admired Man. "
"Candy, Sam, Jessica, Eric...You have truely lost a very special Husband and Father. Doug was one of a kind. Keep him in your hearts and he will live forever with you."
"I was sad to hear about the loss of Doug. I remember as a kid the many hay rides we would take with your family. Please let us know if there is anything we can do. Prayers being sent to your family."
"My heartfelt thoughts and prayers go out to the Soleta family today and always."
"I believe Doug was Father of the year over, and over. Now he can met the FATHER. And continue to wrap his wings around all the children Above. I am so saddened For Candy , the children, and anyone else lucky enough to love Doug. Doug was happy go lucky, He would love his kindness and compation for any fellow man to continue. Pay it forward. Love one another."
"Candy and family: On behalf of my parents, I want to say how extremely sad we are to hear of Doug's passing. He never tired of helping them out these last five years as their needs have become more frequent. In a matter of minutes Doug would be over if Mom needed help with something. In my daily talks with Mom, Doug's name would be mentioned for something that he did to help them out that day. He always had time to stay and talk to them. They loved hearing about the children and what was happening in your lives. He had a huge heart and never expected anything in return. We will remember him for the kind man that he was. Love to you and the children -- Bernie and Muriel Soleta "
"Candy, Sam, Jessica and Eric
Please accept our most heartfelt sympathies for the loss of your husband and father. Our thoughts are with you and your family during this difficult time."
"This is such a shock. All I want to offer and ask for now is the light to heal the weary who suffer the loss of my cousin Doug."
"Candy and family, I didn't know Doug, but my daughter is in your son's class. My prayers go out for you. Now you have another angel to watch over you."
"God bless and keep you through this very tough time."
"Candy.God be with you and the family."
"our thoughts and prayers are with you candy and the children. i have known doug for years he was a awesome guy and father. doug will be missed by many.glad to have had him in the family. god must of needed another angle to watch over all of us along with all of our other loved ones."
"Candy and family, We are so sorry for your loss. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Doug will be missed."
"My thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. Doug will be missed by many....... I just talked to him the other day about how fast our kids are all growing up. What a proud dad! God's plan is not always easy to understand. I'm sorry for your loss. "
"Candy, and family, I am so sorry for your loss, I did not know Doug very, just from when he was in at Ace. Keep him memoies with you and lean on family and friends to get you through this tough time in you journey. You and your kids are in my thoughts and prayers"
"Candy, You and your family are in our prayers."
"My prayers and thoughts go out to the family.R.I.P Doug .You will be very missed ."
"My thoughts and prayers go out to the family .He will be watching over everyone. R.I.P Doug"
"Words don't describe how you all must be feeling. God must have needed another Angel to watch over you all!! Love and Hugs to you all!"
"My thoughts and prayers are certainly with you at this difficult time. Doug was an outstanding citizen, a caring father, and a devoted father. I wish that more people would be like Doug. I am honored to have been related to Doug. In Lutheran doxology we find this passage most comforting in difficult times: May the Lord bless you and keep you, may the Lord make his face shine upon you and give you peace. In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. Blessed be the memory of Doug Soleta."
"Our thoughts and prayers go out to the whole family! "
"Candy and family So sorry to hear of Doug's death. He was a great friend of our son Garwin. We will keep you in our prayers. Keep up your faith in these trying times. Stan and Clara "
"May God be your strength and comfort in the days and months to come. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Soleta family. "
"I will miss seeing him at Mc D'S that table just will not be the same .Rest in peace . I hope the coffee in heaven is as good as MC D'S."
"Candy, Sam, Jessica, and Eric: We are sorry to hear about your loss. My God grant you comfort in this time of need. May He wrap His arms around you and shower you with His Love! You are in our thoughts and prayers."
"Candy and Kids ~ We are so sorry to hear about the loss of your husband and dad. We will keep you in our thoughts and prayers during this most difficult time. "
"When someone dies is always sad. When someone dies unexpectedly it is immensely sad. Today I am immensely sad. My cousin Doug died today in a farm accident. I didn?t know Doug well, but when I talked to him you could tell that he was kind and gentle person. Doug always had kind words to say. You could tell what kind of man Doug was by his actions. He and Candy adopted 3 children from Vietnam. Taking on the monumental task of raising 3 children from a foreign country shows what kind of man Doug was. Doug did a fine job of raising his children, Sam, Jessica, and Eric. Doug was always there for my parents, Bernard and Muriel Soleta. Every time it snowed or when the wind blew the snow around, Doug would come over to my parents place and remove the snow from the lane and the driveway in front of their house. Doug was a successful farmer. He farmed many acres of land and has been farming since he was very young. I think he really liked to farm. He liked it so much that he would share the experience with his uncle Lester. Lester still likes to farm. He likes to get in the tractor and drive around the field. Doug knew this so he, with the help of his wife and sister, would get Lester into a tractor so he could enjoy tilling the land. Getting into a tractor is not the easiest thing for a man Lester?s age. So, Doug, Candy and Char would help Lester get in the bucket of a tractor. Then lift Lester up with bucket tractor so that he could get in the cab of another tractor so that Lester could experience farming again. Did I mention that farming can be complicated at times. Doug certainly didn?t have to do this but he did it because he had a big heart. Farming is a dangerous business. Not because of danger being all around but because farmers work with very powerful machines and the work they do is repetitious if not boring at times. Familiarity also breeds a false sense of safety when dealing with power must stronger than any man. Some people believe that we all have our time. That a power much greater than us controls our fate; a power much greater than the equipment that took Doug?s life. May God enjoy having Doug by his side as much as we enjoyed having him here on earth. "
"Candy, Jessica, Sam, Eric, Words cannot express the loss you feel right now. Just know that you are in everyones thoughts and prayers. Hold on to your faith during this difficult time."
"Candy and Family. We are so sorry,Doug was such a good neighbor. We thought so much of him. we know how quickly our lives can change, and our prayers are with you all. God needed your special man. God bless you."
"We are shocked to learn of Doug's passing and our thoughts and prayers go out to the family. You have our deepest sympathy. "
"My heart goes out to the entire family. I am so sorry for your loss. Jessica, Meghan loves you very much and you are welcome to spend as much time as you want at our house with her. We love you like a daughter and Meghan loves you like a sister. May you find the strength you need in God, family and friends."
"To Candy and precious family - We are saddened and shocked at the news of Doug's passing from this life. Words fail us as we try to express our feelings at such a time. May you be comforted by your many wonderful memories that NEVER die. God Bless you all as you grieve - - -"
"Candy and Family - I am dumbfounded at the news of Doug's passing. You just couldn't find a nicer guy than Doug. I am so, so sorry for your loss. Hang onto your family and friends, and let them all help you. My prayers are with you."