Barry Elliott Soltz

Barry E. Soltz, 74, of Greencastle, passed away peacefully at his home on Tuesday, Jan. 31, 2023.

Born in Philadelphia, Pa., and raised in Gary, Barry met his wife, Sandy, through a blind date set up by his mother, and the couple courted for several years before marrying in 1970.

Upon graduation from Indiana State University in 1971, Barry worked for the Kroger Company in Indianapolis and Carnation Company in Phoenix before taking a position with Automotive Engine Rebuilders Association (AERA) in 1978. Moving his family from Arizona to Illinois, he served AERA for 25 years, mostly in the role of president and CEO, until 2003. Under his direction, AERA developed the first Ford (1977) and General Motors (1978) Complete Engine Service Manuals, which led to the creation of more than 1,000 specific internal engine specification and tolerance sheets for rebuilding gas and diesel internal combustion engines.

Barry was also involved in non-profit organizations, serving the Grayslake School District 46 School Board, Motorist Assurance Program (MAP), and the Kenilwood Road Homeowners Association.

Following his tenure with AERA, he continued to serve the automotive and non-profit industry with CARFAX and the Automotive Maintenance and Repair Association (AMRA). In 2017, Barry and his wife moved to Greencastle and once in Greencastle, Barry fully embraced retirement and spent his time tinkering around his garage, browsing the aisles of Menards, visiting DePauw athletics events, conducting estate sales with Sandy and spending his Saturday mornings at the Greencastle Farmers Market. His name to his grandchildren, Pa, inspired the name of “Paw Treats,” a local small business specializing in homemade dog treats. He also volunteered his time with ETA International (Greencastle) and the Autumn Glen Homeowners Association.

Barry was preceded in his death by his parents, and is survived by his wife of 52 years, Sandy, daughter Stevie (Brian) Baker-Watson, son Brett (Carol Ann) Soltz and five grandchildren, Shay, Brooks and Sydney Baker-Watson and Anabelle and Hadley Soltz.

There will be no visitation or services at this time. Memorial contributions should be made to a charity of your choice.