Solomon Choi, the visionary entrepreneur who founded the popular self-serve frozen yogurt chain 16 Handles, has passed away at the age of 44. Choi, known for his relentless optimism and business acumen, created a beloved brand that became a staple in the frozen dessert industry. His passing has left a significant void in the hearts of his family, friends, and the business community who admired his innovative spirit and dedication to creating moments of happiness.
Choi’s journey began in Seoul, South Korea, and led him to the bustling streets of New York City in his 20s, where he launched 16 Handles. Over the years, he nurtured the brand into a successful franchise, known for its unique self-serve model and wide variety of flavors. Despite selling the business during the pandemic in 2022, Choi’s influence remained strong. His commitment to his family, his faith, and his community were hallmarks of his life, making his untimely death a profound loss for all who knew him.
How Solomon Choi’s 16 Handles Revolutionized the Frozen Yogurt Industry?
Choi, originally from Seoul, South Korea, launched 16 Handles in New York City in his 20s, creating an iconic frozen dessert brand that resonated with many. In a March 2023 Instagram post, Choi revealed that he had sold the business during the pandemic in 2022. Following the news of his passing, current 16 Handles owner and CEO Neil Hershman released a statement expressing his sorrow.
“We are deeply saddened by the unexpected passing of 16 Handles’ founder and former CEO Solomon Choi,” Hershman said. “He was a visionary who came to New York City in his 20s and founded this iconic frozen dessert brand. 16 Handles is where I got my personal start in franchising and I owe so much to Solomon for the opportunities, education, mentorship, and friendship he provided me throughout the years.”
How Optimism and Faith Made Solomon Choi a Succesfull Enterpanuer
Optimism and Faith Fueled Solomon Choi’s Success
Choi’s impact extended beyond his business endeavors. Hershman highlighted Choi’s mission to “create moments of happiness,” noting his optimistic outlook and ever-present smile. “Our hearts go out to his family, friends, and all those who loved him and worked with him during this incredibly difficult time.”
According to Choi’s LinkedIn profile, he was scheduled to participate in a panel for QSR Summit’s “The Future of Digital Transformation in the Fast Casual & QSR Industry” on June 11. His profile also lists him as the CEO of Jabba Brands and places his residence in New York.
Educational Background and Personal Life
Before founding 16 Handles, Choi attended the University of Southern California Marshall School of Business, graduating with a B.S. in Business Administration in 2002. He is survived by his wife, Hannah Chang-Choi, their children, 7-year-old Jubilee and 4-year-old Joshua, his parents, and two sisters.
Choi and Chang-Choi met in 2015 and were engaged within 85 days of meeting each other. They married six months after they first met. The obituary noted Choi’s dedication to his faith, stating, “Solomon was an outstanding example of a man driven by his purpose and faith in God and passionate about sharing the love of Christ with others. He led a Christian men’s group and was committed to supporting and challenging those around him to be the best versions of themselves.”
Remembering Solomon Choi
His loved ones emphasized his “relentless optimism, his discipline & fearlessness, and his Michael Jackson dance moves.” They added, “He was committed to loving his wife and children to the best of his ability and will be remembered as the world’s best husband and daddy.”
Services for Solomon Choi will be held at Promise Church on Saturday, June 15, at 5 p.m.
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