Mary Soler

Mary Virginia Soler (Cook) of North Aurora, formerly of Hopedale, age 66, passed away on March 24, 2025, at Loyola Hospital in Maywood, Illinois. Born to Charles and Vivian Cook on September 26, 1958, in Springfield, Illinois, Mary was the 2nd youngest of 9. This of course presented its own moments of craziness, but she was always in a house filled with love and excitement.

Mary attended Broadview Academy in LaFox, Illinois, where she graduated in 1976. While at school, she worked at Harris-Pine building furniture. It was there that she met the love of her life, Gualberto Soler. She boldly stated, “I’m going to marry that man,” and the rest is history. They started their journey together in 1976, finally deciding to make it official on November 5th, 2001. Mary gained 8 wonderful children through this union, though they were all grown at the time Mary and Gualberto met. Their one and only child together, Stephanie, was born in March of 1977.

Mary devoted her professional life to caring for others. She worked many years as a Certified Nursing Associate focusing mostly on dementia units. At the end of her career, she worked as a certified nursing assistant and health service associate at River Glen in St. Charles, Illinois. Her work in memory care touched the lives of countless patients and their families. With patience and empathy, she provided comfort and dignity to those navigating some of life’s most challenging moments. Her colleagues and the families she served will remember her as a steady presence—kind-hearted and deeply committed to her calling.

Outside of her career, Mary found joy in creating warmth through her hands. She was an avid knitter and crocheter, lovingly crafting blankets, scarves, and hats that brought comfort to many. She also enjoyed sewing, pouring care into every stitch—a reflection of the thoughtful way she approached all aspects of her life.

Mary is survived by her devoted husband, Gualberto Soler; her daughter, Stephanie Nuss (Aaron) and grandchildren, Madeline, Dale, and Charlie; stepdaughter, Minerva Soler Morges and grandchildren, Melissa Coon, Jennifer Alvira (Armandito), Carmen Soler, Johnathen Rafael, and Mara Martinez; stepson, Davis Soler (Martha) and grandchildren, Annette, Rebecca (Joey Santiago), and Jade (Henry Luu Chiem); stepson, Gualberto, Jr. (Elaine) and grandchildren, Krystal Bracero, Lorna (Ludin Rivera), Jasmine (Cliff Clark), and Brendan; stepdaughter, Diana and granddaughter, Cindy Dume (Patrick); stepdaughter, Gicela Pagan (Elvin) and grandchildren, Kevin Tamayo (Christina), and Elvin Jr.; stepson, Oddie (Doris) and granddaughter, Saleen; step-daughter Sumayah and her children; along with numerous great-grandchildren who will carry forward the memory of her love.

Mary is also remembered by her siblings, Thomas Cook (Pam), John Cook (Marlene), Cheryl Steele, and Darryl Steele (Antoinette). She held a special place in the hearts of many nieces and nephews.

She is also survived by her beloved dog, Sammie. His unbridled joy filled her house with love and slobber. He was a constant companion and always snuggled as close as he could to her.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Charles and Vivian; brothers, Harold Cook and Charles Cook; sisters, Vivian Frye and Rebecca Cook; as well as niece, Lisa Cook and nephews, Jason Cook, Jeffrey Cook, and Christopher Cook.

Mary Virginia Soler will be remembered for the kindness she extended so freely, the gentle strength with which she cared for others, and the quiet grace that defined her presence. May her memory bring comfort to all who knew and loved her.

A visitation to honor Mary’s life will be held on Tuesday, April 8, 2025 from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM with a service to follow at Davis-Oswald Funeral Home located at 328 S. Locust St., Tremont, Illinois 61568. Her interment will be at a later date at Mount Hope Cemetery in Tremont.

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