Dr. Hussein Saleh Zaki

Dr. Hussein Saleh Zaki, 79 years old, died comfortably on August 16, 2023 in hospice care in Stuart, Florida, with his loving wife, Zlata, at his side.
Dr. Zaki was born on November 20, 1943 in Cairo, Egypt, one of 10 children to his parents, Hekmat and Saleh Zaki. He immigrated to the United States on a scholarship to study Dentistry and Oral Surgery/Prosthodontics at University of Minnesota and Drexel University, respectively. It was in Minnesota where he met and married his wife of 50 years, Zlata Muskatirovic Zaki.
Dr. Zaki and Zlata resided in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania where he was a Professor (and eventually Professor Emeritus) at University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, School of Dental Medicine for over 30 years. Dr. Zaki's professional accomplishments while at University of Pittsburgh (UPMC) were many and very impressive - he was Director of the Dental Implant Center, Director of Maxillofacial Prosthodontics, and Adjunct Professor, Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery. During Dr. Zaki's tenure at UPMC, he authored hundreds of peer-reviewed journal articles, and numerous book chapters, as well as being one of the major grant holders for UPMC. He was a teacher to hundreds of dentists and physicians who used his knowledge to heal and improve the lives of countless patients; he was a mentor to many students who remember him dearly and owe their success to him. Dr. Zaki was a researcher, innovator and pioneer, advancing the art and science of maxillofacial prosthodontics and head and neck cancer surgery. He was a friend and colleague to many academics and clinicians, supporting and inspiring them through life's journey. His peers refer to him as a "Legend" in the world of Prosthodontics, saying "he taught us all so much about prosthodontics, academics, private practice and life." He gave countless patients, including global royalty and celebrities, hope when no one else could; in times of despair following major head and neck surgery, he was the beacon of light who gave them back their lives.
In recent years following retirement, Dr. Zaki and Zlata spent much more time at their home in Jensen Beach Florida, as he dearly loved sunshine and beaches (reminiscent of his childhood in Egypt close to the Mediterranean Sea). He also loved to drive his red golf cart to the nearby pool and visit with neighbors and friends for hours in the beautiful and warm Florida sunshine. For many years they also enjoyed time together in the summer months with friends and neighbors at their lake cabin on Youghiogheny River Lake.
Most importantly, Dr. Zaki (or Uncle Hussein to his family) and Aunt Zlata loved being with his many nieces and nephews and their children (their grand-nieces and grand-nephews). They joined the extended family for many get-togethers and vacations, almost all weddings, and many major holidays. He was the favorite uncle and always made people laugh and happy, one of his greatest sources of pride and joy. Dr Zaki lived a very active and fun life with Zlata, his friends, colleagues, and his family, "living the full life he had imagined".Uncle Hussein was preceded in death by his parents, several of his siblings, and many close family members.
A Visitation is scheduled on Sunday, August 27 from 2-4 pm Eastern time at the All-County Funeral Home in Stuart, Florida.
In Dr. Zaki's honor and in lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Mission of Mercy of Pittsburgh, which provides free dental care to those who cannot afford it, https://mompgh.org/donate/