Richard Philip Sollman ascended to heaven on June 26, 2022, leaving a legacy of love, family, and learning.

Born in Zutphen, the Netherlands on November 24, 1945, Rich immigrated with his family to the United States in 1952. His late parents, Philippus & Johanna (Disbergen) Sollman (d. 1977), raised Rich, his brother Phil, and sister Margreet on Front Street in Erie. Rich, Phil, and Margreet have proudly stayed connected to their Dutch heritage, and each other, by sharing food, traditions, and stories.

Rich found Gail, his soulmate, in 1972, and they married in 1974. Rich and Gail raised their kids, Rick and Cris, with love, generosity, and compassion; eventually making their home near Edinboro in Franklin Township. Rich became a doting Opa to his grandkids, Hank, Livy, and Keller, sharing hugs, playing games, and cultivating a love of nature.

Rich had a passion for education and was a lifelong learner and teacher. Earning two master’s degrees from Gannon University, he translated his achievements as a student into a career as a science teacher, eventually returning to teach at his alma mater, Strong Vincent High School (Class of ‘64). In retirement, Rich and Gail would feed their zest for learning by traveling near and far together, always looking for new experiences. Their second home in New Port Richey, Florida became a hub for their latest adventures.

A man of many talents, Rich loved to fish (and always kept what he caught!), was active in the Erie Bridge Club, and sang bass for many years in the Presque Isle Chorale. A man of faith, Rich was an active member of Edinboro United Methodist Church. A true family man, Rich will be remembered for how much he loved being with the people he loved and making sure they were happy.

He will be enormously missed by those who were lucky to love him. We love you, Rich. We love you, Dad. We love you, Opa.

Rich was preceded in death by his parents, father- and mother-in-law Fred & Harriet Verbeke, and brother-in-law Mark Roman.

Rich is survived by his wife Gail (Verbeke) Sollman, two children, Rick Sollman (Tara Tallman) & Cristy (Sollman) Eggleston (Rob Eggleston), and three grandchildren, Hank & Liv Sollman, & Keller Eggleston. He is also survived by his brother Philippus Sollman (Jeanne Stevens) and sister Margreet (Sollman) Dancison (Michael Dancison), his sisters-in-law, Bev Verbeke & June (Verbeke) Roman, many nieces and nephews, and Dutch cousins that always remained close to his heart.

To send condolences, please visit gluntfuneralhome.com.

In honor of Rich, take some time to enjoy the quiet wonders of the natural world.