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Eleanor Cole Soldano, of Highwood, Illinois, passed away peacefully on September 9, 2026, at the age of 98. She was born on February 13, 1928, in Highwood, to the late Phillip Edward Cole and Violette Trowbridge.
Eleanor graduated from Highland Park High School and began a long and dedicated career as a secretary. Over the years, she worked at Elm Place Middle School, Highland Park Hospital, and First Bank of Highland Park, where she retired after many years of service.
Eleanor married the love of her life, Cataldo John Soldano, and together they raised three sons: Joseph, Phillip, and the late Daniel. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and aunt who treasured her family deeply.
Eleanor had a love for the outdoors and enjoyed being surrounded by nature. She was an avid walker and could often be found taking strolls throughout the day. She also enjoyed spending time with her friends as part of a bowling group. Her bowling ball proudly carried her nickname, “Pinkie,” a special reminder of her fun-loving spirit and friendships.
Eleanor was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Cataldo John Soldano; her son, Daniel (Adrianne) Soldano of Texas; and her sisters, Patricia (the late Carl) Paradiso and Gloria (the late Robert) Sondergard.
She is survived by her sons, Joseph (Sandy) Soldano of Lake Zurich and Phillip (Donna) Soldano of Highwood; eight grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and many beloved nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends who will fondly remember her.
Eleanor will be remembered for her independent spirit, love of nature, enjoyment of life's simple pleasures, and, most of all, the love she gave to her family. She leaves behind a lifetime of memories that will be cherished by all who knew and loved her.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, September 17, 2026, from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Seguin & Symonds Funeral Home, 858 Sheridan Road, Highwood, Illinois 60040. A Funeral Service will be held at 7:00 p.m., with Reverend Hernan Cuevas serving as celebrant.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Alzheimer’s Association in Eleanor’s memory.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Eleanor Cole Soldano, please visit our floral store.
Alzheimer's Association
225 N. Michigan Avenue, Fl. 17,, Chicago IL 60601
Web: https://act.alz.org/site/Donation2?df_id=32112&32112.donation=form1&utm_source=google&utm_medium=pai