Ali Elgabri

Ali was born in Shebin el Kom, Egypt to the late Nagiba and Zaki Elgabri. He grew up playing soccer and sneaking into the cinema. In the 50’s he served as a lieutenant in the Egyptian army and served as a tank commander in the 1956 Arab-Israeli war. He later worked in aerial photography for the Air Force.

His ambition took him from Egypt to America where he earned his Masters at UCLA film school. While at UCLA Ali met the love of his life, Georganna. His wife of 55 years.

Ali then went on to get a PhD at Ohio State University in Communications. He taught at OSU for many years. He was also the director of International Affairs for the College of Engineering and retired as Professor Emeritus.

Ali was loved by many. He was wise and he was kind. He always had a kind word for strangers. He was adored by his children and grandchildren and made us all laugh to the very end. He will be greatly missed and fondly remembered and will always be the most interesting man we will ever know.

Ali is survived by his wife Georganna, his daughters Amira (Mark) Del Tosto, Shana (David) Elgabri, Alexa (Jon) Elgabri. Grandchildren Dominick, Sophia, Isabella, Ava Nagiba, Esme and Genevieve. Niece Soad (Adel)Keshk and many other beloved cousins and family in California and Egypt.

We would like to give special thanks to Anna. Dads devoted caregiver during these past few months. Thank you for helping us keep Daddy happy, safe and in the sun (his favorite place to be).

Celebration of Life will be held from 4-7 PM on Wednesday, July 20, 2022 at SCHOEDINGER NORTHWEST, 1740 Zollinger Road, Upper Arlington, Ohio 43221. Private burial will be held at Union Cemetery.