Harry Solo

Harry J. Solo, November 4, 1948-November 18, 2025.

Reflecting on his life in his college reunion book, Harry wrote, "The summer before last, Lynn and I celebrated our fiftieth wedding anniversary in the Green Mountains (Vermont), where we managed to gather both our children and their families for the (very informal) festivities. I have always enjoyed interacting with the members of this contingent individually and in twos and threes (and more recently, in fours and fives). Having the full complement of our three generations together, which we have had rarely over the years, was, for me, an unadulterated delight. Contemplating the full length and breadth (of) Lynn's and my time together, whose substance and worth beggar my poor abilities of description and valuation, leaves me with wonderment at where the years have gone and a vivid sense of the truth of the old saying that time flies when it flies."

The beauty of this writing and the heart of its content demonstrate the way Harry lived his life- loving his family and delighting in a well written piece of literature. Harry began his career teaching English at Princeton University, where he also earned his PhD. In 1982, he began teaching at Mankato State University, where he would inspire students for the next 30 years, specializing in classes such as Beowulf and how to teach English as a Second Language (TESL). He graduated from Harvard University in 1970 and Central High School in Philadelphia in 1965.

His love for books and a good discussion were rivaled only by his love of his family, who will miss him dearly. He is preceded in death by his parents, Richard and Joyce Solo. He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Lynn, his children Aaron (Carolyn) and Leah (Brian Bender), his five grandchildren (Sammy, Calvin, Penelope, Emery, Mallory), and his two sisters, Sally and Ellie.

Yes, time does fly when it flies, Dad.

Funeral services will be held at B'nai Israel Synagogue (150 7th Ave SW, Rochester, MN 55902) on November 21, 2025 at 11am with burial at Oakwood Cemetery (38 7th Ave NE, Rochester, MN 55906) at noon. Shiva will be at Adath Jershuran Synagogue in Minnetonka on November 22, 2025 at 6pm.

Family requests that in lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to your local food shelf.

Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Home is honored to be serving the Solo family. To share a special memory or condolence, please visit www.ranfranzandvinefh.com