Kenneth Lawrence Solitaire passed away January 3, 2024 at home in Tacoma, WA.
Kenneth “Kenny” Lawrence Solitaire was born on August 26, 1948 in Tacoma, WA to the proud parents of William James Solitaire and Elma Jefferson. Kenny grew up in the Hilltop neighborhood of Tacoma and attended Stanley Elementary, McCarver Junior High and Stadium High School. He joined the Airforce in 1967, spent time in Puerto Rico and Guam during his term.
Kenny married Sue Ann Wong, with whom he had two children, Kathleen Solitaire Allen (Ramon) and William Lamont Solitaire (Nadine), both of Atlanta, GA. Six grandchildren: Aerielle, Alec, Dante, Liam, and Dexx. He later married JoAnne Brown and gained a bonus daughter, Nyla Moore-McCreary and grandson, Joseph, all of Tacoma, WA. He is also survived by two aunts, Mattie Jackson of Los Angeles, CA and Manilla Jiles of Tacoma, WA.
Kenny became a Christian at an early age as he was raised up at Bethlehem Baptist Church (when it was on Hilltop). Kenny was well known in the community and had a close-knit group of friends. He had friends from all walks of life. Some say, “he wasn’t scared of nobody”. Not too surprising as he did come from a long line of Solitaires known to be tough. He liked to cook and was known for his barbeque which he sold at the Puyallup fair as “RibKens”, along with his Godmother Nealer Patterson. He worked quite a bit in the foodservice industry including being a Manager within the McDonald’s franchise, or a server at various popular Mexican restaurants in Tacoma and Houston, TX when he lived there for some time.
Kenny loved golf and bowling and was quite good at both. He had a mean curve ball which was impressive. He played on several bowling leagues over the years with his brother Richard and cousin Billy.
When later in his life he struggled with several health issues, including partial paralysis from a stroke and Alzheimer’s which required constant care, he was blessed to have a brother, Richard Solitaire of Tacoma, WA who would step up to become his caregiver. Uncle Ricky aka “Pretty Ricky”, would accept the calling to provide 24hr care for the next 11 years of his life. Kenny grew up being a big brother to Ricky and ended his journey being supported by his baby brother. We will forever be grateful for this sacrifice of love.
His passing will be a great loss to his kids, brother, nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, extended family and friends. To all who knew him he will truly be missed. Gone but never forgotten.
We will love you forever and always.
Your Loving Family
Funeral services will be held 2pm, Saturday, January 20, 2024 at Bethleham Baptist Church
