Ali Elsayed El-Kadi

Ali El-Kadi, 85, died peacefully on July 8, surrounded by his family. He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Mary; his two daughters, Mona and her husband Faraz Rizvi, and Dina and her husband Mike Halsey; and his 3 grandchildren Franklin Merlo, Mariya Rizvi and Sofia Merlo; and Mario Merlo and Michael McNaull, who were like sons to him. He is also survived by his sister Leila and brothers Samy and Azme, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his brothers Mohamed, Salah, Fathe, Ahmed, and sister, Nahed. Ali was born in Cairo, Egypt, where he studied textile design and played semiprofessional soccer. He met his wife Mary in England and then returned to Egypt, where their two children were born. The family immigrated to the U.S. in 1968, and have lived in the Tidewater area since 1972. He continued his love of soccer by helping to found a soccer league in Virginia Beach, and was one of their most beloved and star players until he was in his 80s. The family will receive friends at 7451 Major Ave, Norfolk, 23505 on Sunday, July 12, between 2 and 6 PM. Please come and celebrate Ali's life with his family and friends. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Doctors Without Borders (donate.doctorswithoutborders.org). Friends are encouraged to visit www.parklawn-woodfh.com to share memories and words of condolence with the family. Arrangements are under the care of Parklawn-Wood Funeral Home, 2551 N. Armistead Ave., Hampton, VA 23666.