Michael Solitro, Jr.

Michael Solitro, 88, passed away on November 22, 2021 at his Johnston home surrounded by his loving family.

He was a devoted husband to Gloria (Menna) for 65 amazing years. Michael was born in Providence, a son of the late Michael and Francesca (Ceglia). He was the loving father of six children, eleven grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren.

After graduating high school, Mike served in the Army and went on to receive a Bachelor of Science from Rhode Island College. Mike also taught at Bristol Community College and with the Tollgate Baking Program.

Mike started working at his father’s business, Solitro’s Bakery, at the age of 18 and became a master baker. He went on to become co-owner of the family business with his brothers. Known as Mike the Baker, greeting customers with a smile behind the counter was just as important to him as creating beautiful cakes and delicacies everyone enjoyed for more than 70 years. Mike was exceptionally passionate about his baking career and went on to teach his children and grandchildren his secrets.His greatest commitment in life was his family. Michael loved being surrounded by his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren at home for Sunday dinner. He loved cooking side by side with his wife Gloria and made sure if you visited their home, your plate was full. Mike loved to watch sports, always rooting for the New England Patriots and Boston Red Sox.

Michael is survived by his loving children, Francesca Solitro and her husband David Demuth of Johnston, Paula Arlia and her husband Sam of Cranston, Elena Pennacchini and her husband Edward of Cranston, Michelle Solitro-Fitzgerald and her husband Michael of Johnston, Michael Solitro III and his wife Christine of Cranston, and Diane Solitro of Cranston.  He was the brother to Dolly Rossi of Cranston and of the late Pasquale Solitro, George Solitro, Lawrence Solitro, and Armando Solitro.

Funeral from the NARDOLILLO FUNERAL HOME & Crematory 1278 Park Ave Cranston on Monday November 29, 2021 at 10 a.m. followed by a Mass of Christian Burial in St. Rocco’s Church Atwood Ave. Johnston at 11 am. Burial will be private.

VISITING HOURS ARE MONDAY MORNING FROM 8 AM – 10AM.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to: Beacon Hospice-Amedisys Home Health Care 1 Catamore Blvd. East Providence, RI 02914.