Akhtar Kadir

Kadir, Akhtar

passed away on July 31, 2025 at the age of 79 in Tampa, Florida. Born on March 4, 1946 right before the hectic partition of Pakistan in 1947, his life was marked by great success and the overcoming of unbelievable odds to finally achieve the "American Dream" for him and his family in one generation. A learned, dynamic, loving, and generous man, Akhtar was an intellect who touched many lives through his life journey with various contributions and roles.

As a dedicated soldier, Akhtar served over ten years as a Commando/Green Beret in the Pakistan Army - earning multiple medals of honor during war and distinguished service as a special US-exchange soldier, a testament to his courage and valor. After his distinguished military service - which also included being a POW who survived and returned home, basically becoming a war hero - he was unlawfully jailed after a military coup and forced to flee to the US, where he had to start life from scratch again as a political refugee with virtually nothing except for the clothes on his back. On top of climbing the very long ladder to success as a respected business owner and entrepreneur, he was also very committed to education with academic pursuits at Bryant University, the University of Rhode Island (URI), and the University of South Florida (USF) - receiving an honorary degree from URI.

Beyond his professional and military achievements, Akhtar was deeply involved in his community, particularly at the Community Education Center (CEC) for South Asian Muslims in the Tampa Bay area. He also loved the arts and his hobbies included writing poetry, reading, and music, each of which reflected his thoughtful and introspective nature.

Akhtar is survived by his loving wife, Tasneem Kadir; sons, Ali and Abdul Malik Kadir; daughter-in-law, Mamoona Kadir; and grandchildren, Iman, Soraya, and Zain Kadir. He leaves behind a legacy of love, courage, and community service.

A memorial service was held for Akhtar on August 1, 2025, at Sunset Memory Gardens in Tampa, Florida. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Community Education Center (CEC) of Tampa Bay, honoring his commitment to education and community enrichment. Akhtar Kadir's life and legacy will continue to inspire those who knew him and many others in the community he served so passionately.

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