Elia E. Ansara

He was the loving husband of Enham "Ann" Ansara. Beloved father of Olive (Azad) Awad, Emeel (Juliette) Ansara, and Julie (Jeff) Klabunde. Proud Gido of Rania (Issam), William (Celeste), Anna (Michael), Alexandra (Sharif), Erica (Nicholas), Eli, Anna (Fuhad), Isabelle (Joe), Emilio, and Antonio. Cherished Great-Gido of 13. Dear brother of Nikola and Jack. He will be deeply missed by many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

In addition to his parents, Eli was preceded in passing by his brother, Suhail, and his sister, Isabel Suliman.

Eli immigrated to the United States in his 20s with his wife and young daughter while expecting their son. Despite the challenges he faced, such as financial hardships and not knowing the native language, he proved that hard work and dedication pay off. Eli started his career as a manager at Big Boy, which eventually led to him opening his own restaurant, Annie's, in Dearborn.

One of his favorite pastimes was playing poker. He also enjoyed cruising in classic cars. Eli took great pride in his Palestinian heritage. He was a traditional and respectful man who wasn't afraid to speak his mind. May his memory be eternal.

Eli will lie in state on Monday, March 2, from 9:30 am to 11:00 am at St Mary Orthodox Basilica, 18200 Merriman Rd, Livonia, MI 48152, followed by a funeral liturgy beginning at 11:00 am.

In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be directed to St Mary Orthodox Basilica, earmarked Mariam Center.