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Fred Solomon Obituary
Fred William (Bill) Solomon was an unassuming farm boy, born in Goodland, Kansas on September 5, 1930 to Fred and Leona Solomon. Following his high school graduation, his adventuresome spirit took him first to LA where he was an usher at Grauman's Chinese Theater, then to Seattle, before joining the Air Force in 1951 for the duration of the Korean War. Taking advantage of the GI Bill he attended the University of Colorado, graduating with a BS in the triple major of history, geology and geography. He went to Washington DC to work in the Navy's photo interpretation office, the group that found Russian submarines headed for Cuba during the Cuban Missile Crisis. In 1967 the opportunity to work in the exciting and challenging space program lured him to Houston. As one of a small group of photo interpreters he helped to find possible landing sites on the moon. Always curious and inventive, he built a sun compass which was adopted by NASA and appreciated by the astronauts who flew the later missions. For a hobby he enjoyed wood carving, introduced into it by making a violin and a viola d'amore for his wife under the direction of a master violin maker in Washington.
Surviving him is his beloved and loving family: Rae, his wife of 50 years; daughter, Stephanie; son, Erik and wife, Asami, parents of grandchildren Elai and Mia. In his 32 years of living with heart disease he faced each day with optimism, good humor and bravery until his heart could no longer sustain life. He died in St. Luke's Hospital on April 13, 2013. A memorial service will be held Saturday, April 20 at 2PM at Christus Victor Lutheran Church in League City, officiated by Pastor Calder Gibson II. In lieu of flowers we would be pleased to have you donate to your favorite charity in memory of Fred.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Fred Solomon
Glenda Stroud
April 22, 2013
It was so good to see my friend walking and enjoying the sunshine today. I am sure Bill was there beside you in spirit. Rae, do take care and give me a shout if needed.
Gary Gutschewski
April 22, 2013
I knew Fred and worked with him for many years. I was sorry to hear the news. I considered him a good friend.
Sincerely, Gary L. Gutschewski
Karen Wilkson
April 19, 2013
Dear Rae,
I remember that he built you such an amazing viola d'amore; I will never forget it's lovely tones. I was captivated and inspired by his artistic creativity, and both he and you inspired my musical explorations. Please know that I am grateful to you both. Peace and blessings to you and your family. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers always.
Karen McMahon
April 19, 2013
Bill: I am so sad to say, "good-bye". You put up a terrific and courageous battle and remained cheerful through it all.
I will think of you and remember every minute I knew you--some 30 plus years. You are in my memory every day and always.
You have had a great life and you will continue to be loved and respected by all who knew you.
Betty De Lucchi
Katy Gatlin/Bock
April 19, 2013
I had the pleasure of being able to live next to Mr and Mrs Solomon since the day i was born 33 yrs ago! I love them very much and will miss Mr Bill! My thoughts and prayers go out to Mrs Solomon, Stephanie and Eric!!!!
Nadya Guardione
April 16, 2013
I always looked forward having an appointment with you,Rae ,to come to your house and tune your special antique piano ,and wait for Bill's "visit" to come out of his study to the living room to greet me and to wait for me playing a tune........
What a friendly and kind man he was.........
I will cherish his memory always!
Ellen Latimer
April 16, 2013
Rae, you are in my prayers!
Lollie Lopez
April 15, 2013
It was a pleasure working several years with Fred and enjoyed his friendship. My condolences to the family in this time of sorrow.
Bob Hill
April 15, 2013
So many good memories of working with and knowing Fred. He was a wonderful person and a great friend.
Kay Murphy
April 15, 2013
So sorry to hear of Bill's passing. He will be dearly missed in the neighborhood. I feel blessed that I was able to get to know him these past 22 years.
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Memorial Events
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How to support Fred's loved ones
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