Harvey “Arve” Solomon passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by family, on the morning of March 9, 2026. He was born on February 16, 1939, in Everett, Washington, to Erskine and Catherine Solomon.
From an early age, Arve showed a passion for music, which led him to pursue a career as a drummer after graduating from Everett High School. His musical journey brought him many opportunities, including a four-year residency at a club in downtown Seattle. He performed with many well-known Seattle musicians, such as Dave Lewis, Dave Holden, and Jimi Hendrix.
It was on his way to a music job that Arve met his beloved wife, Ida. Together, they celebrated 65 years of marriage in 2025, building a life filled with love, partnership, and adventure.
As Arve’s family grew, he chose to prioritize time with loved ones over life on the road. He became the entertainment manager for the Heritage House, once Seattle’s largest and most prominent Black nightclub. Later, Arve and Ida started a small construction company focused on remodeling bathrooms. Arve also launched “On the Spot Photo,” capturing moments at concerts and social events.
Arve’s commitment to helping others led him to work as a counselor for disabled individuals in the state of Washington. While employed there, he earned his BA from Seattle University and a Master of Public Administration degree from the University of Washington.
His career then took him to Alaska, where he continued his counseling work and became deeply involved in the business community. Arve served on several mayoral committees and was elected president of the Anchorage Human Resource Association, later becoming regional president of the Human Resources Association, overseeing chapters in Alaska, Washington, and Oregon.
One of Arve’s greatest joys was the summer home he and Ida built on the Kenai River in Alaska, known for its salmon fishing, one of Arve’s passions. Sharing this retreat with family and friends brought him immense happiness.
After 20 years of dedicated service, Arve retired from the state of Alaska. He and Ida then returned to the Seattle area to be closer to family.
In retirement, they enjoyed traveling to destinations such as South Africa, Dubai, Bora Bora, and the Montreux Jazz Festival in Switzerland, along with many other adventures. They celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary in Costa Rica.
Arve and Ida joined the “Emerald Rose Yacht Club,” where they spent memorable times cruising the waters of Puget Sound in their 38-foot motor yacht, the “Nana & I.”
A 20-year member, Arve enjoyed dance aerobics classes and weightlifting at the “Harbor Square Athletic Club.”
Arve is survived by his devoted wife, Ida; children Launita, Mark (Suzanne), Vance (Antoinette), and Vic (Angela); sister Luana Solomon; brother Jeff Solomon (Yvonne); grandchildren Jason (Serene), Joseph, Vallen, Vincent, Alanna, Ava, and Maya; and a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins. His legacy continues in the memories and lives of all who knew and loved him.
The family will hold a private celebration of life. Those wishing to honor Arve’s memory may make a donation in his name to the American Diabetes Association at diabetes.org.
