Fred Soulier, 73, passed away on Tuesday, June 27, in Johnson City, NY. He was born in Jersey City, NJ on July 23, 1949. He married his wife Karen on December 6, 1986, in Hampton, NJ.

In addition to Karen, Fred is survived by three daughters, Harley (Robert) Colomban, Ashley (Richard Gilman) Soulier, and Jessica (James Harris) Soulier; his sister, Karol Soulier; two grandchildren, Robert and Ella; sisters- and brothers-in-law Patricia (Brian) Casey, Mark (Melissa Melville) Cole, and Robert (Julie) Cole; and several nephews. He is predeceased by his father, Karl Soulier; mother, Anne (Desmond) Uelen; sister, Eileen Soulier; his mother- and father-in-law, Patricia and Robert Cole; and his dear friend, Larry Judd.

Fred spent his life as a stone mason and contractor, being established in the industry for over fifty years. His stonework can be found all throughout the Hancock area and in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and beyond. He was a master of a lost art and truly an artist with stone. Fred worked hard each and every day of his life, having an uncompromising work ethic and taking the utmost pride in his craftsmanship.

In 1990, Fred settled in Hancock with Karen and Jessica and set about rebuilding his current home on Sands Creek Road. In Hancock, Fred found the simple life that he craved. He loved to spend time on the mountain, whether hunting, picking stone in his quarry, or just walking in the woods. He would seldom rest, coming home from a job site only to work on personal projects at the house or to tend to the various farm animals he raised over the years. He was never without a project, or several. He also loved to ride his motorcycle; when he caught the wind, he said it was "just like Heaven."

Fred became hospitalized with medical complications in late May. He was able to return home for three days in early June before being readmitted. Fred fought bravely and intensely with the same fierce determination that he displayed in every facet of his life. We could not be more proud of him.

Fred would often be found in the front yard chatting with the friends and neighbors who would stop by; he leaves behind many dear friends, including Andy, Bill, Arnie, Gary, Charlie, Eddie, and Anthony, among countless others. He was blessed to have so many close, valued friendships and he loved you all deeply.

The family plans to hold a small graveside ceremony in Hampton, NJ in the coming weeks and a celebration of life in Hancock later in the summer.

Arrangements by Henderson-Biedekapp Funeral Chapel, Hancock.