In Memory of Basim Habib Younan: 02-20-1953 - 12-29-2024

Basim Younan drew his last breath on December 29th, 2024. Unable to bear the tragic and unexpected loss of his wife of 39 years - Zean Zaia Khidou - Basim's condition quickly deteriorated. Their children Patrick, 38, and Sabrina, 36, have been devasted by the loss of both parents in just 2 short months. However, despite this difficult time, they invite everyone to join them in celebrating the loving and joyful lives of their parents.

The family has requested donations in lieu of flowers. Patrick and Sabrina share their heartfelt gratitude for the love and support of their family and friends as they work to ensure the Basim receives a farewell fitting for a kind and generous soul.

Obituary:

It is with great sadness that the family of Basim Habib Younan announce his passing on December 29th, 2024. Basim was a loving father, husband, brother, and friend, and all of us who knew him are fortune to have had him in our lives.

Basim Younan committed his life to his family. Born on February 20th, 1953 in Baghdad, Iraq, he was an exceptionally bright student, garnering straight A’s while helping his father run his businesses. He later graduated at the top of his class with his bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from Baghdad University and worked briefly in missile design before making the journey to America in his 20s. In short time, he fell in love with Zean Khidou, whom he married in 1985.

Basim and Zean began their family together in San Diego. Basim committed every day of his life to building the best life he could for his family. He was structured, hard-working and generous, and he gave to those in need even when he had nothing to give. His children – Patrick and Sabrina – were his pride and joy, and he loved to laugh and spend time with them. He was soft-spoken and simple, and his facial expressions spoke louder than words ever could.

Sadly, his ability to care for his family was cut short by a debilitating diagnosis in his early 60s. Progressive supranuclear palsy greatly diminished his quality of life in his last years, but it allowed his wife and children to return his love and care by providing him with the utmost comfort, care, and quality of life possible in his final years. Basim defied the odds for many years, but when Zean’s life was tragically cut short in October of 2024, Basim was forever changed. The loss of his soulmate was too much to bear. On December 29th, at 1:55am, Basim drew his last breath with his children by his side.

While his children mourn the loss of their wonderful father, they also celebrate the beautiful memories of him. Basim’s best friends in the world were his wife and children. His example reminds us all to work hard and be kind. We will always love you Baba, and we will cherish the memories we have with you forever.