Solan J. Phelps age 86, of Oklahoma City, passed away on Dec. 29, 2017, encircled by his loving family.
Solan, also known as Chris by his friends and family was born Nov. 12, 1931, in Hinton, OK. He was the 6th child of seven children born to Jake Arthur Phelps and Eva K. (Bates) Phelps. Solan grew up a farm boy and learned how to work hard with his five brothers and one sister. He was raised in Lexington, OK and attended Lexington Schools. At the age of 17 he joined the US Army and proudly served in the Korean and Vietnam Wars, retiring as MSG. For several years he taught ROTC at the University of Texas, Arlington, before moving to El Paso. There he taught ROTC for16 years at Andress High School until retirement in 1987. Solan married his best friend and life partner, Betty Sue Wells on Sept. 24, 1952 in Las Cruces, NM. Together they raised four children, Debbie, David, Robert and James. After a career in the military and teaching school, Solan and Sue moved back to OK to be close to their children in 2000. Throughout his life, Solan was an avid bowler and past president of a bowling league in El Paso. He enjoyed fishing and golfing. And also loved watching the O.U. Sooner and Oklahoma City Thunder. Most of all he loved being around his family and especially enjoyed spending time playing cards and dominoes with them. He will be remembered as a wonderful husband, father and grandfather.
He was preceded in death by: Parents, Arthur and Eva Phelps; Son-in-law, Sammy Hullander; 5 brothers, Hughbert, Chester, Leslie, Wyman and Dale Phelps; One sister, Ruby Bugher;
He is survived by: His beloved and devoted wife of 65 years, Betty “Sue” of the home; Daughter, Debbie Hullander of OKC; Three sons, David Phelps and wife Ruth of Sapulpa, Robert “Bob” Phelps and wife Pam of OKC, James Phelps and wife Theresa of OKC. 10 grandchildren, 20 great grandchildren; Numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and a host of other family and friends.
Funeral services will be 10:00am Thur. Jan. 4, 2018 at Wilson-Little Funeral Home Chapel in Purcell, interment will be at the Lexington Cemetery.
