Leonard H. Solomon

Leonard H. Solomon, age 86, of Mashpee, formerly of Norwood, passed peacefully on May 19, 2024.  Leonard leaves behind his loving wife, Barbara.  He was the proud father of daughter Amy [and husband René] and twin sons Gary [and wife Lisa] and Mark, and adoring grandfather of Mitchell, Simone, Eric, and Briana.  Leonard, eldest son of late Milton and Esther Solomon, is survived by siblings Roslyn and Allen.

Leonard graduated from Stuyvesant High School at age 15, Brooklyn College with an undergraduate degree in mathematics, and Cornell University with a master’s degree in astronomy.  He took further graduate courses at Harvard University, where he later lectured.  Leonard went on to become a Program Manager for 25 years at Itek Optical Systems, leading teams of engineers and physicists in developing land- and space-based telescopes and imaging systems, after beginning his career at the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory and the Harvard University Observatory.  Among other accomplishments, Leonard managed a team that created an original design of the Hubble Space Telescope.

Leonard and Barbara’s passion for education, travel, friendship, and commitment to each other and others continues to serve as a model for their children and grandchildren.  Leonard was a dedicated and devoted leader and participant in his religious community, found opportunities for all who wanted to contribute, reveled in watching the next generation develop, and built consensus that would advance the community into the future.

Family, friends, and colleagues appreciated Leonard for his selflessness, wisdom, honesty, sense of adventure, great sense of humor, and a warm and welcoming smile.  Leonard will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Services will be held Wednesday, May 22, 2024 at 10 AM, at Sharon Memorial Park, 40 Dedham St., Sharon, MA.  In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a charity of your choice.