Albert "Al" Solski

Click Here to View Funeral Service Livestream

It is with great sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Albert Solski, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and community leader, on September 5, 2024, at the age of 89. Al was born in Levack, Ontario, in 1935 to his loving parents Walter and Nellie Solski (both deceased). He grew up alongside his siblings Ed and Helen, before the family moved to Toronto. 

It was in Toronto, 70 years ago, that Al met the love of his life, Sheila Farrell. Their bond was instant, and they built a beautiful life together, welcoming four children—Michael, Stephen, Marie, and David. Al and Sheila shared a remarkable 66 years of marriage, a love story that ended with him passing away peacefully in her arms. 

Al dedicated his life to serving his community and making a lasting impact. He began his career in public service as an alderman in Sudbury, later becoming the City Treasurer, where he pioneered the use of zero-base budgeting, an innovative approach that left a mark on municipal governance. In 1979, Al moved his family to Brampton, Ontario, where he eventually took on the role of City Manager. For 20 years, he worked tirelessly to help Brampton flourish, guiding the city’s transformation into a modern, thriving community. Because of his early leadership, Brampton has now grown to become the 8th largest city in Canada. He also spent several years on the Peel Memorial Hospital Board including a time as the Chair of the Board in 1990’s. 

Al was deeply respected for his integrity, loyalty, and dedication to his colleagues. He was known as a kind, humble man who genuinely cared about the people he worked with. Outside of work, Al loved the outdoors. He enjoyed good friends, fishing, hunting, and golfing, hobbies that brought him joy and peace. 

Yet, above all, Al's greatest passion was his family. He was a dedicated and loving husband, father, and grandfather. His family was his world, and he gave them everything he had. He gave his all to them, selflessly dedicating his life to their happiness and well-being. Al and Sheila were inseparable, spending their days together and cherishing every moment. His family was the centre of his world, and his love for them was boundless. 

Al Solski will be remembered for his kindness, his strong sense of duty, and the deep love he had for his family. Al is survived by his beloved wife, Sheila; his children and their spouses: Michael (Tracey), Stephen (Diana), Marie (Peter Rankel), and David (Michelle); and his grandchildren, Cooper, Michael, Emma, Ben, and Jack. His memory will live on in their hearts forever. 

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Cancer Society of Canada because F##k Cancer its a disease we can all do without. 

Al’s legacy of love, service, and humility will continue to inspire all those who were fortunate enough to know him. May he rest in peace. 

Click here to donate to the Canadian Cancer Society