Harlan Smolin

Harlan Joel Smolin passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 6, 2023. Born on August 9, 1950 in Chicago, Illinois, Harlan leaves behind Judith, his loving wife of 50 years, brother David (Cindy) Smolin, daughter Jennifer (Jason Berman) Smolin, and son Jared (Julie) Smolin. He was Zayde to six grandchildren, Lila and Samuel Berman and Theodore, Luke, Brooks, and Callum Smolin.

Growing up in Skokie, Illinois, Harlan attended the Yeshiva High School at the Hebrew Theological College in Skokie followed by The Ohio State University (OSU), meeting Judith at the Hillel dining room and graduating with a bachelor’s degree in geography in 1972. A believer that you never finish learning, Harlan then earned a master’s degree in geography at OSU followed by a master’s in urban and regional planning at the University of Pittsburgh and a bachelor’s degree in accounting from the University of Maryland. His intellectual curiosity and love of learning never waned, with his interests and book collections varying from magic–a lifelong hobby–to history and most recently the art of bartending. He instilled his love of learning in his children, stating that he didn’t want them to go to school for a career, but to learn how to think – which would in turn lead to their success and happiness. He loved being a Zayde, always scouring stores (and recently the internet) for special and unique books, games and toys that will continue to be treasured.

A small business owner for most of his professional career, Harlan worked hard to ensure his family was comfortable and had every opportunity. He held himself to a high ethical and moral standard, and expected the same from his family, his employees and customers. Service to his country was also central to Harlan throughout his life; a priority that he passed down to his children. While at OSU, at the height of the Vietnam War, Harlan enrolled in Army ROTC and continued to honorably serve as an Army reserve officer for the next twenty years, attaining the rank of Lieutenant Colonel and making his family incredibly proud of his accomplishments.

A graveside service is planned for family and friends. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in his memory to Yad Vashem in Israel, Chabad of Loudoun County, the Multiple Myeloma Foundation or a charity of your choice.