Jaad A. Ajlouny

Jaad A. Ajlouny, 58, of Benicia passed away Saturday at a local hospital from complications of chemo treatment for Leukemia, while surrounded by his family & friends. He was born in Detroit, Michigan and has lived in Benicia for the past 29 years. He earned both his Bachelors and Masters Degree from St. Mary's College in Business Administration and was an avid fan of all the Detroit sports teams including the Lions, Tigers & Red Wings. Jaad worked for Contra Costa County Fire for 29 years and retired as a Captain in 2007. He was a member of the Contra Costa County Firefighters Local 1230. As a captain, he was very passionate in developing new recruit firefighters that were assigned to him. He wanted to make sure they were safe and knowledgeable of the job. He never shied away from any challenges that he encountered on the job. He had his opinion and view for just about everything – but that was Jaad, take it or leave it. He would point his finger and say “Well here’s what I would do or say”. Jaad loved karaoke, his favorite was “It’s a Wonderful World” by Louis Armstrong. Jaad enjoyed playing golf and was a member of the Benicia Community Action Council Board of Directors. He was a generous person, proud of his faith in Jesus and his 100% Palestinian heritage. Jaad was the most caring, kind, giving, funny and compassionate person. He volunteered to travel to disaster zones to help the victims of Mexico's 1985 Earthquake and El Salvador's 1986 Earthquake. One of his many passions were giving to others and non-profit organizations. He was the friend you could always count on and be there for the good times and the bad. Words can’t even begin to describe how much he meant to his family and friends and how much he was loved. Rest in peace, Jaad. He is survived by his brothers Jerry (Debbie), Eddie, Victor (Audrey) & Issa (Susan) Ajlouny; 9 nieces and nephews and 6 great nieces and nephews, and his dear friend Karen Beatteay. A Celebration of His Life will be held on Friday, Oct. 2 at 11:00 a.m. at the Benicia Clock Tower. Contributions should be sent to United Palestinian Appeal by going online at www.helpupa.org or send checks to United Palestinian Appeal, Inc., 1330 New Hampshire Ave. NW Suite 104, Washington, DC 20036. Arrangements are under the direction of Passalacqua Funeral Chapel.

Jaad A. Ajlouny

December 3, 1956 - September 26, 2015