Arlene Solomon, 89, passed away October 6, 2018. Her beloved husband Orley passed away just two months ago; and now his “Essie” is at last where she wanted to be, together again with him. They leave their loving family, daughter Jan Solomon and her partner Joyce Vail; son Larry Solomon; granddaughters Meara Solomon and Rachel Solomon; grandson Isaac Solomon; great grandchildren Quinn and Peyton Bodle; great grandchildren Maggie and Nate Vail; and their parents Patrick and Ashley Vail; and sister-in-law Marsha Hirsh and her husband Sidney Hirsh.
Arlene was born and raised in Seattle; she lived on Capital Hill as a child; in Los Angeles as a high school student; then Bellevue, and for the last ten years, at Timber Ridge Retirement Community in Issaquah.
Arlene was greatly loved for her quick smile and sense of humor, and her legendary sweetness. Her support for her family and friends was unconditional. Her children and grandchildren remember her as the foundation of the family; strong and resilient. The love between Orley and Arlene, and their love for their children, gave Jan and Larry a strong foundation of their own from which to grow, and have a chance for a good life.
Orley worked for Ben Bridge for 50 years and Arlene was very much a part of the Ben Bridge family. For many years, she worked tirelessly on Ben Bridge staff retreats; to welcome new members to the Ben Bridge family; and make sure the retreats were the best combination of fun and learning for all who attended. She also worked at Nordstrom and the National Council of Jewish Women while raising her family.
Arlene loved being in Maui with her husband Orley, whom she cherished, and her children and grandchildren. She was happiest spending time with lifelong friends in the poker club and the many friends at Timber Ridge; playing tennis doubles with Orley; finding the perfect peanut butter cookie with a soft center; and watching sports and her favorite soaps, with Orley.
Arlene was an amazing wife, mother, grandmother and friend to so many. She had a way of making everyone around her feel loved just by her presence. She was known and loved as a good listener; just knowing her made people want to share their problems and joys with her, always knowing they would receive loving acceptance in return. We will miss her smile, her sweetness, and her love for all of us.
A private entombment service for the family was held October 10, 2018 in the Home of Peace Mausoleum at Butterworth-Arthur A. Wright Funeral Chapel.
Remembrances may be made to Temple De Hirsch Sinai Bridge Family Religion School, Jewish Family Services or Center for Children and Youth Justice.
All are welcome to sign the online guestbook below, and add any messages or stories for the Solomon family.
