Frederick B. Soulas, Jr.

Frederick Betz Soulas, affectionately known as Fred, Freddie, Pop Pop, and Dad, passed away peacefully on July 14, 2025, at the age of 92 in Media, Pennsylvania.  Fred’s remarkable life was defined by deep kindness, a welcoming spirit, and a steadfast joy that uplifted those around him-even amidst life’s greatest sorrows.

Born December 4, 1932, in Yeadon, PA to Fred and Katherine Soulas, Fred cherished his childhood spent with siblings Charles, Helen Mae Rial, and Jeanne McDevitt.  He was a proud graduate of St. Louis Grade School, West Catholic Boys High School, and the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School, where he majored in Statistics.

After serving two years in the U.S. Army as a Corporal stationed in Okinawa, Fred married Teresa “Terry” (nee Walls) Soulas, the love of his life.  For 35 years, they built a warm and bustling home in Springfield, PA, raising six beloved children: Frederick (Rick) Soulas III, Tracey Pelone, Stephen Soulas, Daniel Soulas, Timothy Soulas, and Michelle Donlan.  Together, Fred and Terry’s legacy grew to include 17 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren.

Fred’s career in market research was marked by leadership, integrity, and vision.  He contributed to Singlinger and Co., Chilton Publishing (twice as president), Valley Forge Info Services, and founded International Communications Research.  Yet, it was his devotion to family and community that truly defined him.  An active leader and volunteer, Fred could often be found fundraising for his children’s scout groups, school associations, and sports teams, and he was a committed member of St. Francis of Assisi Parish.  Friends and neighbors knew Fred as the host of weekly card games and a warm presence in every room.

Retirement was a time of adventure and companionship for Fred.  He wintered in Punta Gorda, FL, treasured summers at Bay Village in Ocean City, and since 2015, resided at Granite Farms Estates in Media, PA.  He found joy in golf, saltwater fishing, following the Eagles and Phillies, college football, and relaxing with his two loyal black Labradors, Tasha I and II.  For Fred, a perfect day often ended with a Manhattan-up, with rocks on the side.

Fred’s memory will live on in his surviving children, Rick (Connie), Steve (Sue), Dan (Mary Lynn), and Michelle (Mike); his grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and the countless friends he made along the way.  He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Terry, his cherished children Tracey and Timothy, grandson Michael Pelone, and his siblings.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Fred’s life at St. Francis of Assisi Church, 136 Saxer Avenue, Springfield, PA, on Monday, July 21, 2025.  Viewing will be from 9:30 to 11:00 AM, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 AM and graveside services at Saints Peter and Paul Cemetery.  A luncheon will follow, as Fred would have wanted - good food, laughter, and stories shared.

In lieu of flowers, the family encourages memorial contributions to the St. Francis of Assisi School Rebuilding effort, in honor of Fred’s lifetime of generosity and service. https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/donation-form/ceee5943-ed3d-4569-a4de-7478094fa64e