Ismail A. Assad

It is with great sadness that our family announces the passing of our father and patriarch, Ismail Assad. He was born in Beit Hanina, Palestine on May 2, 1933.  He immigrated to the United States in 1969.  Our father was a prominent member of the Arab-American community where he was widely respected as a teacher, poet, successful businessman and mentor to many people. He established Assad’s Bakery in 1989 and the Cleveland Beit Hanina Social Club.  He will be remembered for his ethics, integrity, guidance and leadership. He was always ready to help everyone he knew. His loss will be greatly felt in our family and community. He had a great enthusiasm for life and encouraged everyone around him to better themselves. Our father was iconic and a pillar of the community. He was loved and respected worldwide. He was an inspiration to all of us. He will be greatly missed by all of our family and his many friends. Ismail is survived by our mother and his wife of 67 years, Fahmia, sons Riyad, Farid and Ahmad, daughters Shadia, Fairuz, Awatef and Merfit, and over 50 grand and great-grandchildren.  Ismail is also survived by his brother, Yusuf Ahmad.  He will be sorely missed. Thank you to all that have expressed their condolences, prayers and beautiful stories. We love you, Yaba, and may you Rest In Peace. Allah Yerhamak.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Greater Cleveland Food Bank or the Palestine Children's Relief Fund.