Sam Solomon

Sam Solomon rode off on his last journey on February 14, 2026, in Oregon City, OR. Sam was born February 25, 1958, in Eastchester, NY, to Sy and Renee Solomon. He was the youngest child of three, known for his fun-loving personality, need for speed, and culinary talents.

Sam cruised through life on a series of fast motorcycles. From the professional race circuit to the less supervised highways of the western US, Sam lived for the rush of fast curves. Through the 80s, 90s, and early 2000s, he supported his motorcycle passion by whipping up delicious meals as a Culinary Institute of America trained chef. When the constraints of a chef's schedule became too much of a conflict with motorcycle racing schedules, Sam started his own business, Chef to the Rescue. As the Portland chef who saved many restaurant owners from disaster, he filled in for chefs who called in sick last-minute or stepped into restaurant start-ups that needed an experienced hand to train staff and create menus. He was skilled enough as a chef that after one night of subbing, he would frequently leave a restaurant with an improved system of food prep and delivery.

In 2007, Sam hung up his apron for good and embarked on a new career as a CNC machinist, a trade he pursued until his retirement in 2024. While no longer entering races himself, Sam volunteered as a racing mentor at Portland International Raceway, teaching a new generation of would-be racers how to negotiate the track at high speeds. Sam, cheerfully acknowledging he lived a high-risk lifestyle, often thanked his loved ones for putting up with him, even when it meant visiting him in the ER. He frequently spoke of his gratitude to his brother Mark for always having his back. His sister Nancy always had his heart.

Sam loved and was deeply loved by friends and family and was one to show up and cook at gatherings over decades. From weddings to race parties to retirement parties and birthdays, Sam would be there with his grill and his knives, serving up meals to be remembered and relished. He cherished his role as uncle to nephew Alex and the deep connection he had with his sister-in-law Jeanne. He was blessed with a friendship beyond words with his neighbor Rochelle. He would regularly travel out to Idaho to visit with old friends, for laid-back parties, and rides on Idaho's twisty roads.

A life of kitchen culture and motorcycle wrecks took its toll on Sam's body. His family is saddened to have to let him go at such a young age and will remember him forever for his beautiful smile and heart of gold. His father Sy preceded him in death. He is survived by his mother Renee, his brother Mark (Jeanne), his sister Nancy (Nick), his nephew Alex (Mark and Jeanne), and his neighbor Rochelle. A celebration of life will be held in June on Moscow Mountain.