Born July 2, 1927 – Passed away peacefully at Dartmouth General Hospital on January 22, 2021 at the age of 93.
Sol was a kind-hearted soul, Husband, ex-husband, Father, Brother and Grandfather. Sol will always be remembered for his sharp wit, having an answer for everything and a pocket full of quarters.
Born in Chatham, ON, Sol was raised in Toronto. Sol spent his summers at Crystal Beach helping his sister Sophie do hair while he did the washing. In his youth, Sol travelled all over North America ending up in California and eventually making his way to Halifax. Halifax was to be his new home and he loved it. There he opened the very first arcade in Eastern Canada, “The Wizard” on Quinpool Road. During this time, Sol befriended countless local high school students, often showing his support and lending a shoulder or an ear. As those arcade days ended his good friends Helen, Dave, and their children all became closer to Sol. He would be at their homes for special occasions and holiday dinners. Sol never passed up a good meal (with leftovers)! While Helen and Dave provided traditional Nova Scotia fair his good friends Victor & Judith Goldberg fed Sol traditional Jewish food!!
Sol, also known as “Sonny” received some international attention for a “great caper” that he organized in the early 1970’s. Only the likes of Sol could become friends with the very FBI agent which handled his case. Afterwards he became known as “Sonny the Laser”.
Sol loved a good game of cards or horse race but his biggest thrill in his twilight years was watching Judges Judy and Mathis dispense quick justice on Court TV while curled up next to his beloved German Shepherds, Sergeant and Army.
Sol was an avid German Shepherd owner. He loved them. After his 1st beloved Army passed, Sol decided he should have two, so that’s what he did! A fitting name of Sergeant was born. Over the years, multiple sets of Army and Sergeant’s accompanied Sol through till his passing, providing him with comfort and companionship.
The family and friends also acknowledge the wonderful support of Lynn and Elder Dogs. Without them Sol would have never been able to continue living with Army and Sergeant.
In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be made to Elder Dogs in memory of Sol Viner. (hyper link embedded. Or http://www.elderdog.ca).
Sol is survived by his two sons Marshall and Ross, cousin Farley and dear friends Dave and Helen Waterfall, Tracy Whalen, and Victor Goldberg.
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