Baback Abbas Izadi

Baback Izadi, a brilliant engineer, passionate educator, caring friend, loving husband, devoted father, passed away aged 67 in his home in Hopewell Junction on August 5, 2023 after a lengthy battle with pancreatic cancer.
Baback was born in Hamadan, Iran on February 23, 1956. Baback immigrated to the United States in 1975 from Iran and enrolled at Oklahoma State University earning a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering, and later completed his PhD in Computer Engineering from Ohio State University. He met his wife and life-long partner Roya in October of 1996 and married her 7 months later, welcoming his two boys Neema and Rod in 1997 and 1999. He worked as a professor at SUNY New Paltz until his death; continuing lectures even as he received the strongest chemotherapy regiments available. His dedication to everyone he knew remained unwavering even in the face of chronic pain and fatigue that accompanied his years.
Beyond his work, Baback was a prolific outdoorsman, frequently pursuing hunting, hiking, camping, biking with his family and friends. He was a popular soccer coach at the local East Fishkill Soccer Club, coaching his two sons' teams while instilling skills and values that reached beyond the field, helping his players develop confidence and understand the power of collaboration in any endeavor in life. He was a patient and persistent educator, and never gave up on a student, whether it was a graduate student pursuing an advanced engineering degree or a 7-year-old first putting on their cleats for a game. He was happiest when he was able to share his time with those he cared about. Furthermore, he was a patriotic Iranian American. Baback championed the tenants of democracy and freedom; he came from a country that had seen its freedom stripped away quickly and sought to one day be able to return to a free Iran as he advocated and demonstrated frequently for a return of its democracy. He left behind a track record of excellence in every action he took; never sacrificing quality in any pursuit.
Of all those who knew Baback, the common denominator under every characterization of him were his devotion to his loved ones and students, incalculable work ethic, and gentle and understanding demeanor that he extended to all strangers and acquaintances alike. Baback persevered under uncertain circumstances leaving his family in Iran at the age of 18 to come to America, and succeeded in building a rich life that touched all those who encountered him. Many of his friends and family will recant countless instances where Baback would drop everything to help in any way he could; they could always rely on his effort and judgement to help them overcome any situation. His strength and selfless concern for others inspired many across continents and languages; the content of his character alone transcended any barriers in communication, as he spoke most fluently in the languages of love and trust.
Baback is survived by his wife Roya, two children Neema and Rod, two brothers Alireza and Sasan, and his mother Mahin.