Gene Solyntjes, a beloved husband, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away peacefully on September 21, 2026, in Las Vegas NM, due to complications from a stroke. Born on May 4, 1943, in Blythe, California, Gene lived a life filled with love, adventure, and service.

The son of Mary and Herman Solyntjes, Gene grew up with a strong sense of family, which he carried with him throughout his life. He was predeceased by his parents, his brother-in-law Bruce Johnson, sister and brother-in-law, Carol and Capt. David Bolka, his mother and father-in-law, Vieno and Lincoln Miles, and cherished friends, George Schimmele, Gene Altiere, and Bill Tellijohn. He is survived by his devoted spouse, Linda, with whom he shared a joyous marriage of 35 years since their wedding on August 31, 1991, in Edina, Minnesota.

Gene is also survived by his sisters, Beverly Solyntjes and Barbara Johnson, along with his nephews and nieces: Bob (Carey) Johnson, Brad (Aimee) Johnson, Brian (Rachelle) Johnson, Beth (Michael) Shank, Chris (Tara) Bolka, and Stefan (Dr. Mihaela Damian) Bolka. His legacy continues through his great-nieces and nephews, and many other relatives and dear friends who will forever hold him in their hearts.

Gene's work career began as a high-structural iron worker, a path that changed after a serious accident. Demonstrating resilience and determination, he returned to college and earned a Bachelor's degree from Mankato State University. His passion for helping others led him to become a Certified Orthotics Practitioner, serving on the staff of the Seattle VA Hospital for 14 years. After retirement, Gene and Linda settled in Las Vegas NM.

An enthusiast of the great outdoors, Gene found joy in bow hunting, fishing, woodworking, and gardening. His love for travel was well-documented through numerous trips across Europe, accompanying Linda's choir as a “groupie” on their Music Ministry Abroad tours. Gene was a man who valued friendships deeply, maintaining connections with friends from Minnesota, Seattle, and Las Vegas (NM), and many other places, over the years.

A funeral mass to celebrate Gene's life will be held in October at St. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Mankato, MN. The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staffs at Christus St Vincent in Santa Fe, La Vida Buena in Las Vegas, and Anvoi Hospice for their compassionate care and support during Gene's final days. In lieu of flowers, those who wish to honor Gene's memory may consider a donation to a charity of their choice.

Gene's legacy of kindness, friendship, and love will forever be cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His life was a testament to the power of resilience, the joy of adventure, and the strength of enduring love.

Arrangements are entrusted to and under the care of Rogers Mortuary 600 Reynolds Ave Las Vegas, NM 87701.

Please visit our online website www.rogersmortuarynm.com to sign the online register book.