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Rabi Fuad Sulayman M.D.

1942 - 2020

Rabi Fuad Sulayman M.D. obituary, 1942-2020, Chicago, IL

BORN

1942

DIED

2020

FUNERAL HOME

Wenban Funeral Home, Ltd.

320 Vine Avenue

Lake Forest, Illinois

Rabi Sulayman Obituary

Dr. Rabi Fuad Sulayman, M.D., was born April 18, 1942 in Fih, Khoura, Lebanon, preceded in death by mother Josephine Khoury Sulayman and father Fuad Sulayman, renowned Lebanese poet, writer and political philosopher. Dr. Sulayman died August 8, 2020 in his Hyde Park home in Chicago, IL, USA. Dr. Sulayman received his medical training at American University of Beirut where he later assumed a position as Assistant Professor of Cardiology. He was also appointed teaching positions at Harvard Medical School while doing his residency in pediatrics at the The Boston Children's Hospital, and at the University of Chicago Medical School while doing his fellowship in pediatric cardiology at the U of C. In 1976, he embarked on a 44-year distinguished career as a physician, educator and mentor at Advocate Christ Medical Hospital and Rush Presbyterian St. Luke's Medical Center. As a visionary Chairman of the Department of Pediatrics at Christ Medical Hospital, Dr. Sulayman was instrumental in establishing The Heart Institute for Children (1986) which led to building The Hope Children's Hospital (1996)- the 1st new hospital dedicated to children's care constructed in over thirty years in the Greater Chicago, Northern Illinois and Northwest Indiana area. As Medical Director of Advocate's International Health Program for the past 18 years, Dr. Sulayman created and implemented clinical, socioeconomic, and educational programs in Algeria, China, Sultanate of Oman, Tanzania, and United Arab Emirates. As the recipient of numerous national and international awards and honorary doctorates, Dr. Sulayman was recognized for his lifelong commitment to the highest quality and most thoughtful, creative and compassionate medical care for children and their families, and to the inspired education and training of the medical professionals who touch their lives. Dr. Sulayman is survived by his wife Aïda Nassif Sulayman, his two sons Fuad (wife Holly and children Loa, Rowan, and Phoenix) and Karim Sulayman, younger brothers Walid Sleiman (wife Lola and children Ziad and Fuad) and Wissam Sleiman (wife Selma and children Dana, Lina and Sana). In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations be made to the Lebanese Red Cross (http://www.redcross.org.lb/) for its continued efforts following the catastrophic explosion in Beirut, Lebanon which occurred just before Dr. Sulayman's passing. The family will plan a celebration of his life at a later date, when public gatherings are safer. Info: Wenban Funeral Home, Lake Forest, IL (847) 234-0022 or www.wenbanfh.com

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Chicago Tribune on Aug. 12, 2020.

Memories and Condolences
for Rabi Sulayman

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sharon Kuta

August 6, 2024

You will always be in my memory and Prayers. I was so blessed to have you in my life. God Bless and keep you.

sharon Kuta

August 7, 2023

I still miss and pray for him. I worked for him for a very long time. He was a fantastic person and friend. He is and was WELL LOVED by me and many. Rest in peace.

Maad Elali

August 8, 2022

Rest in peace Rabi, we miss you

Corey penlton

August 6, 2021

He was such a nice and caring Person. I will never forget him. NEVER!!

Earsie Penlton

February 25, 2021

He was a very GOOD and caring Dr.

Melody Raddatz

February 22, 2021

His name popped into my head this morning so I decided to look him up.
I googled and to my sad surprise his picture was above the word obituary.
I met Dr Sulayman in 1991 when my son Cliff was born. Cliff wasn´t suppose to live a year but with Dr Sulaymans guidance, vast medical knowledge , love and compassion Cliffy lived.
Dr Sulayman did not think twice about hopping in his car and coming to little cliffs rescue at our home. He made me feel as if I could take care of a baby trached on a ventilator at home, and I did! Cliff surpassed all medical expectations and lived to be 10! He traveled and did many things in his 10 years and I know Dr Sulayman would be proud of that! Thank you Dr Sulayman for taking such good care of Cliff and thank you for our little joke of keeping the nurses wondering if you were my dad! Hahaha so many of them asked ha!
Thank you for teaching me how to deal with all that came with having a child on a ventilator at home, it paved the way for Patrick. Little Cliffs younger brother who also is trached on a vent at home!
25, in college, living life! I added a pic of the 4 kids. Only one you didn´t take care of is Patrick! The others are all grown up!!!
Thank you.... much much love
I Hope you´re eating ice cream!

Homayoun Nassiri

December 8, 2020

Intelligent, kind, compassionate, caring, competent, forgiving and smily. 42 years since I met him first and 24 years since our last visit, but always in my mind, always in my heart. It is 4 month after his pass and I just found it in sadness and shock. It is Tuesday afternoon at home in Los Angeles. Dr Sulayman came to my mind. I opened google to read more about him, instead I saw the bad news. I am Asthmatic but my current shortening of breath is not asthma, it is his loss. As in 42 years I never forgot him, for another 100 years I will not forget him, as long as I live. Homayoun Nassiri, MD

Sherry Panek

October 18, 2020

It was an honor to have Dr. Sulayman as a friend, colleague, and pediatrician to my children. He was a wonderful man, and one of the most intelligent, knowledgeable, and caring physicians I have ever known. I was privileged to have been part of his dream come true, Hope Children’s Hospital, and my children were blessed with his exceptional care. May he rest in peace, knowing all the healing and love that resulted from his extraordinary vision. Your legend and legacy live on, my friend.

Liz Marren R N

August 27, 2020

I worked with Rabi at Wyler children’s hospital the University of Chicago in the 1970s. He was a wonderful doctor, coworker, teacher, and very supportive of the nursing staff. He touched Everyone he met. I am sure he has touched many lives in his career as he itouched mine and all the children he cared for at Wyler Children’s Hospital

V Amod Saxena, MD

August 26, 2020

I had known Rabi Well since he joined Christ Hospital in late 1970s. As the Chair of a committee to search for the new chairman of the department of Pediatrics, we asked Rabi, then an applicant for the position about his vision, he simply said that he wanted to start a children's hospital in south west side. After his selection to the post, he kept his promise by starting and building the famous Hope Hospital! Rabi was a good human being, great doctor and had enormous energy. As we mourn his demise we must celebrate his life! He touched us all and that we are grateful! May he rest in peace!

Precious A

August 25, 2020

My deepest condolences and prayers go out to the Sulayman family. I am a medical student who rotated with Dr. Sulayman. He was a kind, patient and wonderful teacher. I learned so much from him. And for this, I am very grateful. It is truly a great loss.

The Glatz Family

August 24, 2020

Our condolences to the Sulayman family. Our family is very sad to hear of the passing of Dr. Rabi Sulayman. Dr. Sulayman became the pediatrician for our children when he arrived at Christ Hospital in the 1970s. We will always be grateful that he made time for all the children even though only one was a cardiac patient. He made an impression on them when as adults they still remember his warm and kind nature. One commented on how unusual it was that Dr. Sulayman would take the time to have a conversation with him. His goodness lives on.
Our prayers will be with your family during this difficult time.

Maysoon

August 23, 2020

So sorry for the loss of Dr. Sulayman. The kids and I appreciate all your thoughts and help.

Jeanne Philgren-Fris

August 23, 2020

I just heard of the passing of Dr. Sulayman and it saddened me deeply. As one of the original PICU nurses at Christ Hospital I worked with him in the 80’s and early 90’s. He inspired all who came in contact with him and also made you feel special, always taking the time for you. It was a personal and professional honor to have been a small part of that wonderful new pediatric open heart team and to have had him at the helm. Dr. Sulayman will always have a special place in my heart. He touched thousands in one way or another. My deepest sympathy to his beloved family. Jeanne Philgren Fris

Patricia Hamadeh RNHouse Supervisor

August 23, 2020

Dear Family Members, I have worked at Christ MedCenter for 45 yrs as an RN I remember many nights rounding in the Peds Hosp and seeing Dr sitting in a patients room because the child condition was not stable. He was such a kind and compassionate Dr and human being. I also had him take care of my many children and he would say to the residents following him first rule is listen to the parents they have a vast knowledge of their child and they will help you to become a better Dr and he did just that never over reacted just practiced excellent medicine I will miss him and always remember him for saving my 32 week old baby who is now 35 and a healthy mom wife and Regustered nurse Rest in Peace

Faithful Blessings Bouquet - VASE INCLUDED

Nazih Salam

Sent Flowers

Nazih salam

August 18, 2020

My classmate, close friend, and exceptional humanitarian and loving human being.
May he Rest In Peace

Martha Winter

August 17, 2020

Pediatric Medicine lost an icon. Rest in peace Dr. Sulayman.

Rami Haddad

August 17, 2020

When I was a 1 year old infant, I needed heart surgery or I wouldn't have survived. My parents being new in Chicago could not afford the operation. Doctor Rabih offered to do it free of charge and saved my life. It also turned out that he was from the same village as my great grandfather who was good friends with Doctor Rabihs father, the poet. I owe Dr Rabih my life. I am now 26 years and healthy. Thank you Doctor, your generosity lives on.

Jose Ramilo

August 16, 2020

I got to know Rabi since 1987, when he encouraged me to join his second family at Christ Hospital in Oaklawn. At that time, he was anticipating a new Hope Children's Hospital to break ground at the south campus. After completion of the hospital, he worked hard to recruit excellent groups of physicians to establish a great department. He was a tireless dealer, planner and a great executer. Through the years, he proved to be an excellent organizer, visionary leader and a friend to many physicians, nurses, hospital employees, patients ( parents), and ancillary workers in the department. He was so respected for his accomplishment as Chairman of the Department of Pediatrics for so many years. I salute Rabi for his dedication to our profession. May he rest in peace!

Kathy O’Callaghan

August 14, 2020

My sincerest condolences. It was an honor to work with Dr. Sulayman. May he Rest In Peace

Patty Cekis

August 14, 2020

It was truly an honor to work with Dr. Sulayman. I worked with him at Hope Children's hospital. I watched him speak to families with compassion, encouragement,and senerity. You will always be remembered.

RITA SCALES

August 13, 2020

To one of the best physicians and medical director for respiratory I’ve ever worked with in my 40 years as a therapist. His support for respiratory therapists gave us the autonomy to demonstrate knowledge and skill level as part of the children’s hospital team. He will be greatly missed, sincere thoughts and prayers.

Nada Suleiman Saba

August 13, 2020

Dear Aida
I was so sad to hear about the passing of Rabi , to know that he will be no longer among us brings again the pain of losing my loved ones . Rabi always had a special place in my heart , although we were worlds apart ,yet he was always the favourite cousin, the good heart ,the beautiful sense of humour,the dr I was proud of . I will miss him here on earth but his memory will never be forgotten . I wish I could have asked him to take care of my George up there,but Im sure he will .
My sincere condolences to you and the family .

SHARON KUTA

August 13, 2020

Dr. Sulayman was a man of vision who cared deeply about his mission in life, and his patients. He did so much for so many. I am fortunate to have had him in my life and will always be appreciative of that. He was a very private person. He brought compassion and love and always tried to make things better, no matter the issue. May God rest his soul and welcome him with open arms. He will be missed by so very many. Prayers for his family, that God ease the pain of loss.

Patrick O'Neal

August 13, 2020

I was a resident pediatric physician at Hope Children's Hospital from 2001-2004. Rabi always seemed larger than life. He was everywhere; in the cardiology clinic, in the PICU, teaching rounds, morning report, and directing the hospital. He was a legend. Hope was a family and he was the father. He will be missed.

Miranda Lea Green-Lukey

August 13, 2020

I was born in 1986 he saved my life, I was born with a hole in my heart. He was also my doctor until I was 5or6. I wouldn't be here if it wasn't for him. He was a guiding light for my mom and myself. My condolences to his family and friends. Also everyone he helped along the way in his career. Heaven gained a wonderful man. ❤

Cynthia Fusco

August 13, 2020

Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. I will always remember the kind Dr with a gentle nature and warm smile. That was Dr Sulayman. He was a man I spoke to just about every day I worked. He was always pleasant to be around and willing to help with anything. He was truly a great Dr, but also a great man. May his family be comforted as they begin the journey of grief. Prayers and thoughts are with you.

Irene Quirmbach

August 12, 2020

I remember Dr Sulayman from the days when I was Karim's violin teacher. Please accept my sincere condolences and wishing the immediate and extended family peace and comfort at this time.

Jarret Palmisano

August 12, 2020

Dr. Sulayman was a very good man. He helped my brother and I with some heart issues. My condolences to his family.

Sally

August 12, 2020

My deepest condolences! Sorry for your loss! God bless you all.

Janice Pearson

August 12, 2020

Dr. Sulayman was very kind to everyone. He was a great teacher. He told great stories. The Pediatric Heart Institute and Hope Children’s Hospital are here because of his efforts. Prayers of comfort for his family.

Maad Elali

August 12, 2020

Dear Aida, Fuad and Karim,

We are deeply saddened by the loss of dearest Rabi. On this journey of life, our paths can become joined with an extraordinary human who not only influences us but changes our course forever. For me, that person was Rabi Sulayman, my mentor and much endeared friend. He was a visionary who was not limited by disappointment. He was compassionate, caring and always available to his patients and friends. Our relationship goes back to more than 43 years. It will be hard not to see his smile again, but I was fortunate to be able to say goodbye two days prior to his passing. My wife, Sandra, and children, all send you our deepest condolences and much love to your family during these times.

With Respect,
Maad, Sandra, Kendah, Adam, Alexander and Kareem El-Ali

Pauline V. Adelman

August 12, 2020

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow. Sincere condolences to family and his professional associates and fellows. Dr. Mary Dochios and her office nursing staff were very happy when Dr. Sulayman consulted during difficult times in the medical setting. He will truly be missed by all.

Clare Winer

August 12, 2020

My condolences to the family, of a dear friend to all children, and those who care for them. Without Rabi's constant support, it would have been impossible to start, and develop, the Child Life Program, at Christ Hospital, and then, Hope Children's Hospital. He was relentless in his dedication to the care, and well being of children, and their families.

Peg Guerra RN

August 12, 2020

He will live on forever in the families and children he help!

Ginette Haak

August 12, 2020

I am so saddened to hear of the passing of Dr. Sulayman. He was an amazing physician. I will never forget the kindness and compassion he showed us as he guided us through the most difficult decisions in our daughter’s care back in 1995. He spoke with us daily as we worked through this difficult time. Never pressuring us, he was always focused on what support we needed to come to a decision. He truly listened to us and our concerns. In the end, I don’t think I ever could have come to peace with the decision we knew we needed to make if it weren’t for his thoughtfulness and caring guidance. Thank you to his family for sharing him with us. My deepest condolences as you grieve the loss of an amazing man.

Micheline Howe

August 12, 2020

Dr was my daughter’s cardiologist since she was born in 1997. He was like family. I’m so saddened by this news and send my condolences to his family. He was an awesome man. I pray he rests in peace. Forever remembered.

Helen Grace

August 11, 2020

RIP. He was there when I lost my first patient as an attending. I won’t forget that. Donated to the Lebanese Red Cross in his honor.

Marlene McKinney

August 11, 2020

Dr. Sulayman was so kind to my family in helping us through our son’s traumatic injury I couldn’t ask for better bedside manner. In my 12 months at Hope Children’s hospital Dr. Sulayman checked on my sons progress as well made sure I was ok. Rest In Peace Dr.

Suzanne Morris-Loney

August 11, 2020

Dr Sulayman will be missed. He was an excellent physician when I worked with him at Hope children’s hospital. My condolences to the family.

Amin Barakat

August 11, 2020

Dear Aida: Our heartfelt condolences to you and your dear family

Rabi was a good friend since the medical school years at the American University of Beirut. He was an excellent pediatrician/pediatric cardiologist, a good teacher and a leader in the medical field. He had a great sense of humor and he brightened the day of everyone around him.
Rabi, along with all who have known you we shall keep fond memories of you as a sincere friend, a compassionate, conscientious, and competent physician, and a real gentleman.
Amin and Amal Barakat

Amin Barakat

August 11, 2020

Dear Aida: Our heartfelt condolences to you and your dear family.

Rabi was a good friend since the medical school years at the American University of Beirut. He was an excellent pediatrician/pediatric cardiologist, a good teacher and a leader in the medical field. He had a great sense of humor that brightened the day of everyone around him.
Rabi, along with all who have known you we shall keep fond memories of you as a sincere friend, a compassionate, conscientious, and competent physician, and a real gentleman.
Amin and Amal Barakat

Michael Verive

August 11, 2020

So sorry to hear of Dr. Sulayman’s passing. We learned a lot under his direction at Christ Hospital and Hope Children’s Hospital. He will surely be missed!

Hissa Moammar

August 11, 2020

We are incredibly sad and devastated to hear of the untimely passing away of Dr. Rabi.

He was a great teacher, a big mentor, a positive inspiration to his students and his colleagues. It is very heartbreaking to part with a lifetime highly esteemed friend. He has enlightened our lives with great advice, commitment to excellence, and dedication to hard work. He has been a role model with an extraordinary character, superb intelligence, wise guidance, and immense kindness.

Please accept our sincerest condolences and deepest sympathies to you and your valued family. Dr. Rabi shall never leave us; his wonderful memory and his remarkable legacy shall always be remembered to guide us.
He shall be greatly missed.
May Dr. Rabi rest in heavenly peace.

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