Adam Softic

Adam Softic

ATHOL-Adam Softic, 94, formerly of Athol and Orange, died peacefully on Thursday, June 8, with his family at his side.
Born in Visoko ,Yugoslavia on March 1, 1923 he was the son of Sauko and Suha Softic. He lived in Yugoslavia until the age of 16 when he and hundreds of other male citizens were involuntarily transported to Treibach, Austria where they were forced to work in Nazi labor camps. Following the war and his release from his forced labor camp, he met his wife, Adelinda, and together they left war torn Austria with their three small children; Peter 6, Enver, 3, and Veronica, 1 year.  A two week journey across the Atlantic Ocean and a quick stop in New York City soon led them to a new home and hopeful future, arriving in Orange on Memorial Day of 1951. Taking full advantage of the American Dream, Adam successfully worked at the Orange Foundry, the Union Twist Drill, and the L. S. Starrett Co. before retiring in 1988.
Adam loved sports, followed them all closely, but soccer was his passion. His love of soccer, combined with his desire to contribute to his new country and community, were a perfect match. With the support of Joe Spadafora at Mahar and Chris Sullivan at Athol High School, he helped to introduce and successfully coach, varsity level soccer teams at both schools. Adam was also the driving force in beginning the popular YMCA Youth Soccer Program which remains a favorite today.
A loving husband, devoted father, and proud grandfather and great-grandfather, Adam took great pride in his family. He leaves his beloved wife of 73 years, Adelinda. He was pre-deceased by his son Peter Softic and his granddaughter Ashley Softic. He leaves behind his son Enver Softic and his wife Ellen of Athol, his daughter Veronica Winters and her husband Charles of Athol, his grandchildren Rachael Zani and her husband Michael of Orange, Jodi Coverly and her husband Scott of Raleigh, NC, Peter Softic and his partner, Cindy Shepardson of Athol, Erica Winters of Rockland, MA, Marcy Kelley and her husband Paul  of Leominster,  Adrian Softic and his wife Kara  of Wethersfield, CT,  Michael Winters and his wife, Jennifer of Orange,  Chad Softic and his wife Abby of Orange,  Gavin Softic and his wife Meredith of Peabody, and Travis Softic and wife Elissa of Springfield. Great-grandchildren are Isabella and Julia Zani, Benjamin and Adelynn Winters, Devon Softic and Pvt Dawson Softic USMC, Cali and Colin Laakso, and Jaden, Morgan, Scarlett, and Graham Softic.
Calling hours will be held on Wednesday, June 14 from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm, with a funeral service at 12:00 pm, following the calling hours.  
Burial in South Cemetery, Orange, will be private.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Mahar Boosters Club, c/o Larry Fisher, 100 Winter Street, Orange, MA 01364 or Athol-Royalston Athletic Association, c/o Athol High School. 2363 Main Street, Athol, MA 01331.
Witty’s Funeral Home, 158 South Main Street, Orange, is directing the arrangements.
You may offer your sympathy online at www.wittyfuneralhome.com