Memories

Share a Memory

A place to gather the words we did not get to say.

Share a Memory

Words from family, friends, and everyone whose path crossed his.

• Although we met through work, Ali became so much more than a coworker. He was a friend, and one of the most genuinely kind, thoughtful, and positive people I've known. Ali had a way of bringing light wherever he went. Every Monday, I looked forward to hearing about his latest adventures and seeing the incredible photographs he captured along the way. He found joy in the things he loved and shared that joy generously with those around him. Whether it was stories about Elephant, his beloved betta fish, showing us his collection of adorable and quirky rubber ducks, sharing his many elephant treasures, or sharing his beautiful photography, Ali's passions were uniquely and unmistakably his own. What I will remember most is his positivity. Even during difficult times, there was an optimism and warmth about him that never seemed to fade. Being around Ali was comforting. He had a way of making the world feel a little brighter, and I feel grateful to have called him my friend. I will miss him dearly. My heart goes out to his family, friends, and everyone whose lives were touched by his kindness. Rest in peace, Ali. You will not be forgotten. 💙

  Amber Hawthorne

  Reno, Nevada · September 29, 2026

• I had the pleasure of working with Ali and being his manager for a time while working in the Azure CXP Program Management Office (PMO). Our time together was relatively short, however I was fortunate enough to get to know him a bit. My memories of him are that he was a kind-hearted, shy and intelligent human. He was always open to learning and his passion for photography was infectious and inspiring. We did a fun thing on our team to get to know each other better and wanted to share Ali's responses for those who may not know these things about him: - favorite movie: Interstellar - favorite sport: crickett - food dislikes: ramen, eggplant - favorite animal: elephant -favorite scent: lavender -interesting/fun fact: he had a large rubber duck collection - do you fold or not fold a pizza slice? fold Taken from this earth too soon. May he rest in peace. My condolences to those he left behind but know that his legacy is in the memories he created with those around him, and they will be cherished. I know I will. ~m

  MILA DELANEY

  seattle, WA · September 23, 2026

• Ali was truly an amazing individual, soft spoken, heart of gold, and truly unique in this world.  In the time I knew Ali, we spoke a lot about astronomy (common interest) where he would tell me about the trips he was taking to more remote areas of Washington to capture the Milky Way and Northern lights (time lapses that were incredible).  He would say something like: “I’m going to drive a few hours from here and spend the night in my car while doing some time lapse - you are welcome to come any time”. To which I laughed then telling him I had kids, the demands of the job, and that I’d look forward to seeing the spoils of his labor.  He shared some amazing videos with me which I want to share here to make sure you all knew how talented and awesome Ali was in more dimensions than most.  I now regret not taking those trips with him. https://www.youtube.com/@fotokahani is his site (you have to see these). I shared my captures with my telescope, he shared his.  I always valued that unique connection and somehow thought we’d always have that.  I’m thankful for the time I had with him - so fortunate that we were graced with his presence in this world and that our paths directly crossed. Though I worked with Ali, that wasn’t how he was defined to me. He was my friend and I’ll miss him.

  Jim Britt

  Redmond, WA · September 22, 2026

• Ali had a wonderful smile. Whenever I met him or spoke to him on the phone, he conveyed love, warmth and optimism. Whenever I interacted with Ali, I could feel the love and care that Asad bhai, Anbreen and Sara showered him with. He was the first person to ever call me "Yousuf Uncle" and it sounded so sweet. I will live with his smile and warmth in my heart forever.

  Yousuf Siddiqui

  Rancho Mission Viejo, CA · September 21, 2026

• First of all thank you to Ali’s parents for raising such a beautiful human. Ali was one of the most kindest, warm and caring individuals I have ever had the pleasure of meeting in this world. I met Ali in graduate school at UW and the conversation I remember most was one we had just a couple years ago at an alumni event. Where we discussed the pain and suffering of the people of Gaza and how he still had friends (and I believe family) in the region. He was always an advocate online and I admired that so much. He will definitely be missed in this world as he touched so many people.

  Katie Browne

  Seattle, WA · September 18, 2026