Dr Akram Kareem Al Kass Isaac, our beloved father, brother, uncle, grandfather and patriarch passed away on June 30th, 2026 in Oviedo, Florida, after a courageous battle with illness and age. He was 90 years old.

He was our quiet strength and our ultimate anchor. Born on October 1, 1935, in Mosul, Iraq, Akram demonstrated extraordinary intellect and determination from an early age. He graduated as the top student in his medical school and went on to complete postgraduate training in Otolaryngology, Pediatrics, and eventually Anesthesia. After immigrating to the United States, he started the family that would become his legacy. He is survived by his three children; Sergeant Laith Kareem (married to Keli Kareem), Doctor Yasmine Kareem, and Captain Errol Kareem who will remember him as a trusted advisor, a generous nurturer, and a sage disciplinarian. He modeled integrity, and taught them dedication and tenacity as evidenced by their titles. Over the course of an illustrious 54 year career in medicine in the greater Chicagoland area, he touched countless lives through his dedication to healing and his unwavering concern for his fellow man.

Upon his retirement, he enjoyed spending time with his six grandchildren and further embracing his passion for world travel and culture. He got to share this passion with Devin Kareem, Jaclyn Kareem, Ethan Kareem, Colin Kareem, Evangeline Kareem, and Naila Kareem by taking them to Alsace, France. It was as a grandfather that he cultivated his softer side and embraced laughter. He was often seen kicking a soccer ball, flying a kite and even visiting an amusement park or two during his time in Florida. He was a masterful story teller and actively encouraged imagination.

He was preceded to heaven by his parents Isaac Ismail and Mahi Yousif, and his beloved brothers Adnan Kareem and Kamal Karim. He is also survived by his remaining siblings Suaad Al Sabbagh, Amal Kareem, Jalal Abdul Kareem, Selma Karim Al Kass Isaac, and Lamia Ayyar. They will cherish the memories of his commitment to bringing his family together. Through his generosity he sponsored each of his siblings in their relocation to reunite the family in the United States. He was their big brother, their support, their leader, and their hero.

Because of the firm foundation he has built, our family will stand strong, united and deeply grateful for his guidance and perseverance. Rest in eternal peace.

“Well done, good and faithful servant? You have been loyal and trustworthy with the few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s joy!”

A Funeral Service will be held at St. Paul Syriac Orthodox Church, 8824 Cottonwood Ave, Santee, CA 92071 on Saturday, July 11, 2026 - 11:00am followed by Committal Service at Holy Cross Cemetery, 4470 Hilltop Dr, San Diego, CA 92102