Local obituary: Sol Cohen, 90, Holocaust survivor and longtime owner of Newton barbershop

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Sol (Shialom) Cohen, affectionately known as “Mike,” who was born in November 1935 and passed away on April 21, 2026, at the age of 90. A Holocaust survivor and Greek immigrant, Sol was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, and uncle. He was a devoted Freemason and friend to all.

Born in Larissa, Greece, Sol’s life was a story of resilience. He carried his history forward while building a new life in the United States rooted in hope, hard work, and devotion to those he loved. Sol and his wife Paula later made their home in Westwood, Massachusetts, where they could often be found hosting dinners for any occasion. All were welcome and no invitation was ever needed. Their home has always been a place of laughter, comfort, and connection, a space where memories were made and where everyone felt they belonged, up until Sol’s very last day. Sol would sit at the head of the table, watching with pride as the dining room filled with family and friends.

“Sol, The Barber” was the longtime owner of Ye Olde Clip Joint in Newton Upper Falls, where he became a true fixture in town. His shop stood as a cornerstone of the community, a neighborhood institution for generations. In a mill village shaped by deep roots and small family businesses, the barbershop became a local gathering place. Sol was there every day, fostering conversation and connection from Boston College hockey to local sports leagues, and could often be found at the rink or field after closing and on weekends supporting his grandchildren.

Above all, Sol was a family man. He shared a deep and enduring love with his wife Paula for 61 years. They created a lifetime of love and a foundation that holds their family together, a gift that will be carried on for generations to come. He was a proud and loving father to Sam, Sol, and Lena, and took immense pride in the lives they built. His greatest joy was his grandchildren, with whom he shared a unique and loving bond with each of the eight. Being surrounded by his family was where he felt most at home.

Sol is survived by his wife Paula, his children Sam; Sol and his wife Christie; and Lena and her husband Mark; and his grandchildren Hannah, Myles, Abby, Asher, Nathan, Ally, Jory, and Rebecca. He is also survived by his siblings Jack; Phillip and his wife Anna; Rose; and Rachel. His legacy lives on through the family he built, the community he shaped, and the countless lives he touched.

A funeral service will be held on Friday, April 24, 2026, at 10:30am at Levine Chapels, 470 Harvard Street, Brookline, MA. Burial will follow at Or Emet Cemetery, 776 Baker Street, West Roxbury, MA.

Shiva will take place immediately following the burial at Samuel Cohen’s home.

His memory will forever be a blessing.

This local obituary is published via Legacy.com and Levine Chapels. Want a loved one’s obituary featured on Boston.com? Submit your obituary here, or email it to [email protected].