Toby S. Solomon

We celebrate the remarkable life of Toby Sheila Katz Solomon, a woman whose warmth, strength, and adventurous spirit touched us all. Born on January 20, 1938, Toby came from humble beginnings, a testament to the enduring American dream. Her father, Herman, a Latvian Jewish immigrant who arrived in the U.S. at just 17, and her mother, Ida, born in Virginia Beach, Virginia, worked together in their own local butcher shop. It was in this loving home that Toby learned the profound value of family and friendship, a foundation that would define her entire life.

Toby had two older siblings, both of whom predeceased her. We remember her elder brother, Norman Katz, and her dear friend and brother, Seymour Katz, who was only 14 months her senior. She was also predeceased by her sister-in-law, Elizabeth Ruth Katz, with whom she also shared a special bond.

At 21, Toby embarked on a new chapter, marrying and later welcoming two beautiful daughters into the world: Ilyse Helen Tasdemir, and almost three years later, Michelle Lori Gualtieri. The 60s and 70s presented unique challenges for a single mother like Toby, yet she raised Ilyse and Michelle with unwavering dedication, providing them with everything they needed. Her love extended beyond her immediate daughters. She cherished her nephew and nieces, Ron, Gail, and Laura, so deeply that, in her heart, she truly had five children. As her family expanded, Toby embraced her sons-in-law, Faruk Tasdemir and Ralph Gualtieri, with the same love and devotion. And she adored and cherished Karisa Gualtieri, her only grandchild.

Toby’s professional journey was as inspiring as her personal one. Her intelligence, empathy, and leadership propelled her from her start as a secretary to the esteemed position of Director of Human Resources for Hitachi Metals, Ltd., a major international company. For 31 years, she dedicated herself to advocating for her coworkers, crafting one of the most respected and generous compensation packages in the industry. She was admired not just for her intellect, but for her profound sense of fairness and compassion. One of the highlights of her career was the honor of a trip to the company headquarters in Japan, a reward for her devotion and commitment to excellence.

Beyond her achievements, Toby was defined by her character. She valued close friendships, loyalty, integrity, and hard work above all else. She possessed a rare ability to see people for who they truly were, judging them by their actions and kindness rather than their titles or status. Toby was open-minded, perpetually optimistic, and always eager to embrace new experiences. Her appreciation for diversity and different cultures enriched her life and those around her.

And Toby was fun! She was an adventurer at heart, always ready for a road trip to a casino, a lively party, a relaxing cruise, or any new escapade that came her way. Her travels included international trips to Europe and Turkey. Her zest for life was infectious, and her laughter filled every room she entered. Toby Sheila Katz lived a life rich in love, purpose, and joy. She leaves behind a legacy of strength, compassion, and an adventurous spirit that will continue to inspire us. Though we mourn her passing, we celebrate the incredible woman she was and the indelible mark she left on our hearts. She will be deeply missed, but her spirit will live on in all the lives she touched.