Solomon Choi, 16 Handles Founder, Dies Suddenly Aged 44

Solomon Choi, the entrepreneur behind the self-serve frozen yogurt chain 16 Handles, has passed away at 44.

Choi, a resident of Manhasset, Long Island, died on June 7, according to an online obituary. The cause of death was not disclosed.

Choi had sold his frozen yogurt business during the pandemic in 2022, as noted in an old Instagram post.

Following the news of his passing, 16 Handles’ current owner and CEO, Neil Hershman, expressed sorrow, calling Choi a visionary who came to New York City in his 20s and founded a beloved frozen dessert brand.

Hershman remembered Choi for always smiling and being optimistic, reflecting the company’s mission to create happy moments.

Born in Seoul, South Korea, in 1980, Choi graduated from the University of Southern California with a degree in Business Administration in 2002.

He moved to New York City in 2008 and started 16 Handles and Greeno Products, a company specializing in custom disposables for the food service industry.

At the time of his passing, he was listed as the CEO of Jabba Brands, a consulting firm in the food service and restaurant technology sectors.

Choi is survived by his wife, Hannah Chang-Choi, whom he met at a 16 Handles location in 2015. They became engaged just 85 days later and had two children, Jubilee, 7, and Joshua, 4.

The obituary fondly described Choi as relentlessly optimistic, disciplined, fearless, and known for his Michael Jackson dance moves.

Most importantly, he was devoted to his family and will be remembered as the world’s best husband and father.