Michael Solon

Michael Henry Solon, 76, West Chester, Ohio died peacefully, surrounded by his family, on November 22nd, 2024

He was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on July 6th, 1948, to John J. and Ann Marie (Burke) Solon. Mike attended Roxborough High school before joining the Airforce in June, 1968 and spending the next 22 years officially devoting his life to our country with the next 25 years to his second lifelong love, the J79 aircraft Engine, working and consulting for General Electric.

Mike met the love of his life, Diana Lea in August 1969, soon after she had returned from a vacation with her friends in Spain. Mike often talked about seeing her for the first time with her long blonde hair and golden tan, knowing immediately she was his forever. Excited to start their new lives together, the two were married July 11th, 1970, at Our Lady of Walsingham Church in Corby, England. Mike and Diana were blessed with three children (his diamonds) all lucky enough to be born and raised during multiple assignments in England, Washington, North Carolina, and Texas. 

Mike was passionate about his J79 engine, having spent 22 years of his life working, troubleshooting and overseeing those who proceeded him in “getting their hands dirty” in the Airforce. He retired from the Airforce on August 31st, 1989, and began his second career as a “civilian” working and consulting for the General Electric Aircraft engines division. He was thrilled to eventually support the engine he loved that was being used by multiple foreign partners in the F4 fighting Phantom, the “Tigers”. He led the J79 team for General Electric for many years, later being recognized as “Mr. J79” in a 1999 article published by General Electric.

Mike never met a stranger, you were immediately brought up to date about the things he was so thankful for and proud of, his wife, his children, his grandchildren and his engine. 

Mike was preceded in death by his parents John J Solon, and Ann Marie (Burke) Solon, and brothers John J. Solon Jr and James G. Solon and is survived by his beloved wife of 54 years Diana (Lea) Solon; his three children Leanne (Bradley) Kent, Michael Jr. (Angela) Solon (#1 Son), Kimberley (Matthew) Roberts; four beautiful grandchildren (diamonds in the making) Braden, Kallie, Rylin and Reece; loving sister Ann (Brian) Matsinger; many nieces and nephews; and last, but not least, his dog Willow.

In lieu of flowers, donations in his name to the Airforce Museum Foundation would be greatly appreciated. 

Visitation Will take place on Saturday, November 30, from 10 am until the time of the funeral service beginning at 12 noon, at Hodapp Funeral Home in Liberty Township, 6410 Cincinnati Dayton Rd, Liberty Township, 45044.

A burial with honors will take place at Dayton National Cemetery at a later date.