Funeral Details

Aaron I. Solan, age 100, was a devoted husband, beloved father, cherished grandfather, and proud great-grandfather. He shared 74 wonderful years with his wife, Toby (née Samotny), and together they built a life filled with love, laughter, and family. He was the deeply admired father of Ken Solan, Barbara Kite, and Michael (Laura) Solan, and the proud grandfather of Melissa Kite, Allison Kite, Brandon (Diana) Solan, Ryan (Kyle Letendre) Solan, Julia (Zack Welpan) Marion, and Ariel (Claire Brunow) Marion. His legacy continues through his cherished great-granddaughter, Morgan. Aaron’s warmth and kindness touched the lives of many nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends, all of whom will miss him deeply.
Aaron pursued education with passion, graduating from Crane High School before earning his Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from the Illinois Institute of Technology. His career at Turner Construction Company spanned 36 years, where his work helped shape Chicago and cities across the country—his legacy built into the very foundations of those places. In 1942, Aaron enlisted in the U.S. Navy, training at Great Lakes Naval Base before serving as a Quartermaster on a PT Boat in the South Pacific. He assisted the captain and navigator, carrying out his duties with the same dedication and integrity that guided him throughout his life.
Aaron found immense joy in his family. He was a devoted and supportive father, grandfather and great grandfather, always present for dance recitals, soccer games, skating competitions, and TaeKwonDo events. His enthusiasm for life extended beyond these moments—he shared his love of fishing, gardening, and tennis with his loved ones, passing down his passions to future generations. Summer vacations in northern Wisconsin became treasured family traditions, filled with fishing expeditions and laughter. His backyard garden was his pride and joy, where he welcomed everyone to learn about flowers and their care. Aaron’s love for nature led him to volunteer for years at the Chicago Botanic Garden, a place that reflected his appreciation for life’s beauty.
Aaron and Toby spent winters in Dunedin, Florida, enjoying their time at Mediterranean Manor. He remained an avid fisherman and a formidable tennis player, never losing his competitive spirit. Together, they explored the world, traveling throughout Europe, Israel, and across the United States, embracing new adventures with gratitude. Aaron fully embraced his Jewish heritage, finding great joy in the music, traditions, and shared celebrations. As a devoted member of Temple Judea in Skokie for over 40 years, he built lasting friendships and embraced the spirit of his community. Aaron lived a full, rich life—one defined by love, integrity, and an unwavering appreciation for the world around him. His century-long journey was marked by joy, kindness, and deep connections with those who had the privilege of knowing him. He will be remembered with love, and his legacy will endure in the hearts of all who were fortunate to be part of his life.
Service, Friday, June 13 at 10AM Chicago Jewish Funerals, 8851 Skokie Blvd (at Niles Center Road), Skokie. Interment Private. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe, IL 60022, www.chicagobotanic.org or a charity of your choice. To attend the funeral livestream, please visit our website. Arrangements by Chicago Jewish Funerals - Skokie Chapel, 847.229.8822, www.cjfinfo.com