Thompson: McCleary is a better place because of Edith Soller

By Linda Thompson

For The Vidette

Brycen Huff is the grandson of this year’s McCleary Bear Festival grand marshall and is responsible for nominating her to head the parade. He wrote:

“Edith moved to McCleary about 80 years ago from Kansas. She graduated from Elma High School. After high school Edith married a local McCleary boy, Fritz Soller, and they made their home and raised three daughters here. She worked many years at the local grocery store until her retirement.

“Edith is the daughter of former McCleary Mayor Ernie Beerbower and two of her daughters were Bear Festival Queens in the ’70s, Evie Soller Comer and Sherry Soller Huff. During that time, Edith spent countless hours promoting Bear Festival around Grays Harbor, Mason, and Thurston counties and anywhere else she may have traveled to. Edith was also known for her great hospitality during Bear Festival where she would open up her home for parade participants during their staging time. Whether it be something to eat, use the restroom or something to drink, everyone was always welcome to her home.

“For years Edith volunteered to peel vegetables for the Bear Stew, until which time her arthritis in her hands would no longer let her. In addition, Edith would donate her famous cakes for countless fundraisers, which included Bear Festival or other community fundraisers. Edith was always happy to volunteer for community events, such as McCleary Clean Up Day and numerous fundraising dinners for the McCleary United Methodist Church of which she has been a member for years.

“Edith has always been for the betterment of McCleary and proud to call McCleary home. Edith is the perfect candidate to represent McCleary for the 60th Bear Festival celebration.”

Karen Waddingtion, co-chair of the Bear Festival Committee, had the privilege of asking Ms. Soller to be the Grand Marshall. When Waddingtion arrived, the house was filled with relatives. Having a crowded home is nothing new to Edith Beerbower Soller. The Beerbower family is prominent in this county, as are the Sollers. Edith welcomed Karen and was happy to have yet another visitor. That is Edith. The more, the merrier.

Waddingtion reported, “When I arrived at her home, she was surrounded by her family who already knew the reason I was there. I introduced myself and told her I had a surprise to present. Ms. Soller, being so humble, asked ‘For who?’ Needless to say, she was shocked and touched that she had been chosen as the Grand Marshall. Her love for this community and her involvement with the Bear Festival and so many other events, made her the perfect selection.”

Yes, McCleary is a better place because of Edith Soller. You make us proud, dear lady. Very, very proud.