Clem J. Solarik

Clem J. Stolarik, age 75 of Hawthorne, New Jersey and Sarasota, FL, passed away on Sunday, May 1, 2022.

He was born in Passaic, NJ to Albin and Josephine Stolarik.  Clem lived there until he was married. He graduated from Popius Catholic High School.  He continued his education at Tampa University receiving his Bachelor of Arts in Education and specializing in Physical Education.  He graduated with the class of 1968 and was an active member of the Theta Chi Fraternity. He met fraternity brothers there who became lifelong friends.   Clem cherished his close friendships and was especially blessed to have one of the most loyal friends by his side, Henry Grau.  Even when sickness made it near impossible to get together, these two friends never missed a day without at least one phone call, checking in with each other and comparing notes on spreads and odds.

Clem’s first job was a physical education instructor in Paterson, NJ. He later became the Aquatic Director at Norman S. Weir Elementary School until he retired.  Clem also owned several businesses throughout his lifetime.  He owned C & M Deli, Ridgefield Park, Bon ViVant  Deli, Wayne, NJ and the Greenhouse Café of Wayne, NJ.  

Clem met his wife, Caryn at the Jersey Shore.  He spotted Caryn while bartending at Joey Harrison’s Surf Club and knew she was the one. They were both educators in the Paterson School System.  They dated, married and built a house in Hawthorne, NJ, that they still own to this day.

Clem will be remembered as the life of the party. He always made sure everyone had a drink in hand and a plateful of something delicious.  Guests were always blown away by his shrimp cocktail and baby back ribs. He had an infectious smile from ear to ear. He never raised his voice, never lost his temper, and never had an unkind word to say about anyone.  He loved to travel, go on cruises, spend time in Atlantic City, and plan parties and happy hours around the pool. He was the ultimate planner.   Having things to look forward to was the secret to a happy life he said. He loved sports and could tell you the spread on any game any time of day.

Clem was a devoted husband and father. He is survived by his wife, Caryn, of 49 years. This August would have been their 50th Wedding Anniversary. He has two children, Jill and Jeff. He has five granddaughters.  His daughter Jill and her husband Tom have three girls, Gia, Arianna, and Lexi. His son Jeff and his wife Alyssa have two twin girls, Layla and Winter.  He is survived by his brother Albin, and cousins Mark, Karen, and Jimmy.  He was adored by his granddaughters, especially, Arianna, and will be missed dearly by friends and family everywhere, even in the UK.

For those wishing to make a donation in Clem’s memory, please consider the Leukemia Lymphoma Society (click on the blue text to donate)