Michael W. Sollars

Michael W. Sollars of Longview, Texas, passed away June 6th 2011 at his home, surrounded by his family. He was born in Danville Illinois, January 1st 1949 to Frances Cap and Norma Sollars. He was raised in Hoopeston, Illinois. He was a veteran of the Vietnam War, serving the United States Air Force. He moved to Longview in 1978. He was self employed for many years. He was the owner of Hayward Fiberglass, and later moved the business and changed the name to Phoenix Tank Co. After leaving the tank company he ran several different restaurants, the latest being the Silver Spur in Gladewater, and Texas Traditions in Gilmer Texas, along with his sons, Brent and Brett. Mike had many employees throughout the many years he was in business, and always took pride in all of his employees, he knew it took everyone to run the business, and he appreciated each and every one of you. Now his sons Brent and Brett, and daughter Brittney, will carry on and finish what he started. He loved is family dearly, and all of his many friends and employees saw him through a lot of tough times. He was preceded in death by his parents, a grandfather, Ross Egnew of Illinois, and Mr. and Mrs. John Sollars of Illinois. He was also preceded in death by two brothers, Chuck and Gene Sollars, and his father in law, Harold Hewett of Longview. He is survived by his wife Cheryl, and their children, Brent, Brett, and Brittney Sollars, of Longview. He is also survived by a sister and brother in law, Gene and Doris Pierce of California, a sister Diane Sollars Gooden of Florida, A brother Don Sollars and wife Regina of Illinois, a grandmother Barbara Egnew of Illinois. He is also survived by his wife's grandmother, Marti Hewett of Longview, and mother in law Judith Light of Longview, Texas. He also leaves behind many nieces and nephews, and great nieces and nephews and several in laws, and a host of friends, and employees who were like family to him. Mike was a generous man who would give anyone the shirt off his back, and as his nephew once said, "He was a man who gave 2nd and third chances to many people. He always saw the good in everyone. He was an honorable man, who believed a man's word or handshake was binding. He lived his life with integrity and bravery and encouraged those around him to do the same." The family would like to extend a heartfelt "Thank You" to Texas Home health for the compassion they showed Mike and his family. They were only here for a few short days, but allowed him peace and the family comfort. We would like to also thank everyone who has called or come by with food, and for all of the prayers and kind words. We would also like to extend many thanks to Austin State bank, Anita Sutton, Jason Moore, and Dorla Whalen for being there for our family, and for making sure the family and the restaurants were being looked after in Mike's absence while he was sick. A note from his children," Dad, you were our rock and our safety net. We promise to carry on and make you proud. We may fall short at times, but as you have taught us we will pick ourselves up and move forward. You are our hero, our mentor, and our best friend. We will always love you and will forever miss you. RIP Dad, we will see you again." Honoring his request, cremation arrangements are under the direction of Rader Funeral home. No services at this time, but a memorial will be held at a later date. If you would like, donations can be made to Texas Home health, or to Safe Haven for horses.

Michael W. Sollars

January 1, 1949 - June 6, 2011