Donald Solomon

Born Nov. 29, 1932 to Ben and Mary Solomon, Don Solomon passed away on February 13. After graduating from Harvard University at a time when Harvard had a quota limiting the number of Jewish students, Don returned to Toledo to help his father run Ben’s Truck Parts.
Don developed the business by focusing on world-wide contacts.  Working from a non-descript office and in possession of a well-thumbed Rolodex, Don bought and sold new and surplus diesel engines, heavy-duty truck drive systems, surplus military and heavy construction equipment components, and portable power generation systems worldwide.  He was one of the most knowledgeable and well-connected people in his industry.  His network of suppliers, buyers, and corresponding friendships spanned every continent and nearly every time zone.
Don was passionately committed to his philanthropy.  Deeply connected to his roots, he believed in giving back to the community where he lived and succeeded.  Determined to make a difference, he provided generous scholarships to advance the liberal arts at the University of Toledo, Bowling Green, the Toledo School for the Arts, the Jewish Federation of Greater Toledo, his beloved Harvard University. and Shalem College in Jerusalem. He had a special commitment to the Jewish people and the people of Israel, and was the driving force in building the Chabad House in Toledo.  His contributions have touched the lives of many and will be remembered for years to come, leaving a lasting impact on Toledo and the Jewish world.
Predeceased by his wife Deirdre, Don is survived by his children, Cathy Barrow and her husband Dennis Barrow of Frederick, MD, and David Solomon of Rhinebeck, NY, and by his grandchildren, Luke Solomon of New York, NY and Adam Solomon and his wife Alexis Sarandon of Rhinebeck, NY, and his great-grandchildren, Cooper Solomon, Rudiger Solomon, and Indiana Solomon, of Rhinebeck, NY.  Contrbutions in his memory may be made to any of the institutions he supported.

Graveside services will be held on Friday February 16, 2024 at 2:30 p.m. in Historic Woodlawn Cemetery. Please meet at Central Ave. gate to form a procession to the gravesite.

www.wickfh.com
 

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Donald Solomon, please visit our floral store.