Obituary of Michael Solomon

Michael Solomon, born to Beatrice (Neufeld) and Martin Burtrand Solomon in Chicago, was the middle of three boys. At the age of six, he and his family moved to Louisville, KY, though he spent many summers back in Chicago with his mother and brothers. He graduated from Atherton High School and earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Louisville in 1958. In pursuit of his passion for social work, he received an MSW from Tulane in 1960 and later a PhD from Smith College in 1967.

Michael's career took him to various places, beginning with work in Danville and later in St. Louis at Jewish Family Services. It was in St. Louis that he met the love of his life, Ann Wasserman, with whom he shared 60 wonderful years of marriage. Together, they moved to Boston, where Michael began his PhD studies at Smith College. Their first child, Robert, was born in November 1965.

In 1967, the couple relocated to Denver, where Michael joined the University of Colorado Medical Center as Assistant Professor and Head of the Division of Psychiatric Social Work. Their family grew with the births of daughter Betsy in January 1968 and son Andrew in May 1970. In 1978, Michael embarked on a new chapter, opening a private practice in psychotherapy, where he offered compassionate support to individuals, couples, and families in the Denver area for many years.

Michael was a man of many talents and interests. He was an accomplished needle pointer and a devoted lover of music, with a special knack for playing one particular piano song beautifully—though there was always talk of a second song that, while never heard, was undoubtedly impressive. His passion for fashion was evident in his collection of cool eyeglasses, fun socks, and stylish tennis shoes, and he remained remarkably tech-savvy. He also had a fondness for martinis, jazz music, and the theater. 

Together with Ann, Michael enjoyed extensive travels around the world, with highlights including a safari in Africa, exploring Paris, Greece and Italy, and a memorable visit to meet the pandas in China. Their most cherished adventures, however, were the many family vacations they took with their children and grandchildren. Their home was a welcoming haven, always open to family and friends, filled with great food and better company.

Michael was known for his boundless curiosity about people, his non-judgmental nature, and his remarkable ability to listen and provide guidance. Whether you were family or friend, he was someone you could confide in, always ready to help others find their path. He was well-read, passionate, and deeply treasured by his children and grandchildren. With a sharp sense of humor and a pragmatic approach to life, Michael was the life of any party, always available and willing to lend a hand.

 Michael is survived by his beloved children: Robert Solomon and Victoria Gunn, Elizabeth and Robert Low, and Andrew and Dananne Solomon; as well as his cherished grandchildren: Delaney, Darby & Brandan, Amanda, Dailey, Emma, Aydan, and Alexander. He was preceded in death by his wife Ann, parents and his brothers, Martin and Bernard.

Michael Solomon’s legacy is one of love, wisdom, and warmth. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him, as well, his spirit will live on in the countless lives he touched.

Interment at Emanuel Cemetery within Fairmount Cemetery on Friday, August  23, 2024 at 10:45am

Services will be livestreamed via the Feldman Mortuary YouTube Channel. 

As was his wish, we will be celebrating his life with a cocktail party on Saturday, August 24, 2024 at Andrew & Dananne’s home: 1603 S Elm St, Denver, CO 80222  from 5pm-8pm

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Bags of Fun. Thank you for your generosity. https://app.etapestry.com/onlineforms/TheGabbyKrauseFoundation/DonateMikeSolomon-1-1.html