Vivian “Guy” Solano, formerly of Raton, New Mexico, age 82, passed away in the loving care of his family on November 20, 2023. Guy was born February 27, 1941, in Raton to the late Roman and Amada (Valdez) Solano. He is also preceded in passing by seven of his eight siblings. Guy served in the National Guard and worked as a computer operator at the Berkley Laboratory. He was able to retire and return to his hometown Raton to care for his parents. He was a family man and loved his children as well as his siblings and grand/great-grandchildren in a special way. Guy was a social person and never met a stranger who didn’t become a true friend. His one-liners, jokes, and other antics were endearing to all and he kept up with his jokes even during his difficult fight with cancer. Guy routinely replied to nurses, physicians, and caregivers with “Ain’t no thing” when asked to charge forward deep into treatment. His fighting spirit and the trust he placed in his care team was unmatched. His care team lit up when Dad would come in for therapy. It was simply the effect he had on people. Never meeting a stranger was never more true.
Many will remember him as “the bean guy” while hanging out at Raton Motors with his good friend Noby. As he couldn’t quite handle being retired and loved to be around people. “The Bean Guy” sold beans and chili at farmer’s markets and at various spots around Raton. He was easily spotted in this little white Toyota pickup wearing his “Got Beans?” ball cap.
Guy and his daughter cherished their time together, filled with laughter while talking about current events, and funny moments, and attending SF 49ers and Warriors basketball games. He also adored bonding with his grandsons over sports, trucks, vacations, and the fun times they shared. Every conversation ended with I love you. His absence will be deeply felt, yet his presence will forever remain in our hearts.
Guy and his son had a close bond centered around jazz music and throwing dice. Cherished memories happened during a five-day jazz cruise along the California coast. They immersed themselves in great concerts both day and night, engaged with the artists, and shared laughter until they were both exhausted.
Guy is survived by his significant other of 30 years, Josie Gonzales; children, Mike Solano (Carmen) and Tricia More’ (Dave); grandchildren, Liz Myers (TJ), Ryan Benson, Daniel Benson, Katie Solano, Matt Mandel (Karen), Greg Fenili, Robert Fenili, and Sabrina Spellman; great-grandchildren, Nico, Brendon, and Charles; sister, Gloria Farina; and many extended family members and countless friends.
Family and friends will gather to celebrate his life in the spring, and he will be laid to rest with his parents at the Gate of Heaven Cemetery in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
Rivera Family Funeral and Cremations Los Alamos has been entrusted with his care.
A wonderful tribute to a wonderful man. His absence will be felt daily. A daughter cannot wish for a better father. In this photo I can hear your smile, hear your jokes and know you’re soaring high with the angels (the funny ones with the greatest sense of humor). I love you Dad <3