Living legacies in flowers
Lee Solomon
Each spring, dozens of neighbors join together at the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy’s community garden in Point Breeze to plant a vibrant display of flowers. This garden, bearing the name of Lee Solomon, means something not only to the neighborhood but also to a family whose roots run deep there. Since 2000, Lee Solomon’s family has sponsored the garden in memory of this Point Breeze native, who was president of Tile City and a beloved father, brother, son and husband.
“Lee was a terrific guy. He traveled a lot, was very worldly and had tons of friends,” said Ed Solomon, Lee Solomon’s younger brother. The two brothers enjoyed playing golf, travelling, whitewater rafting at Ohiopyle and rooting for the Steelers together. “Lee was charitable as well. He was involved with several nonprofits in the area and did his share of volunteer work.”
WPC’s Point Breeze garden
In April 1995, Lee Solomon was diagnosed with a brain tumor, and he died six months later. Following the loss of his brother, Ed Solomon sought a way to celebrate Lee’s life and keep his memory alive. He called WPC to see if he might be able to honor his brother through the Conservancy’s garden in Point Breeze. It seemed to be the perfect way to remember Lee in the very neighborhood that held so many special family memories. In 2000, Ed, his parents, Lois and Bob Solomon, and Lee’s wife, Andrea, began sponsoring the garden.
Since beginning the garden sponsorship, Ed has received numerous positive comments from friends who pass the garden.
“People who grew up with us see it, as well as people who are just passing by,” said Ed Solomon. “It is a fine way to remember and pay tribute to someone. It’s also a great way to give back to the community, because a garden is something that allows people to enjoy — not just memorialize. Even if you didn’t know my brother, you can enjoy the garden. I think he would like that. He was a positive, upbeat kind of guy.”
Two years ago, Ed expressed interest in endowing the Point Breeze garden in his brother’s name. The Conservancy worked with the family to make his request a reality, and today, the garden serves as a permanent memorial to Lee Solomon.
Garden Endowment Opportunities
In addition to celebrating a special life, a garden endowment generously supports the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy.