Nabil F. Sarofim

Nabil "Bill" Sarofim was born in Cairo, Egypt, on June 12, 1939. His parents sent him to an English boarding school, where he received a strong education that prepared him for the life he would later build. After graduating, Bill came to the United States for college, fulfilling a dream that would define the rest of his life. He graduated from Baldwin Wallace College in Berea, Ohio, with a degree in polymer chemistry.
Bill worked tirelessly to become a United States citizen because his deepest wish was to stay in America and build a future here. In 1964, while at St. Luke's Hospital in Cleveland, Ohio, he met the love of his life, Linda. On their second date, Bill asked Linda what qualities she looked for in a husband-a question that reflected his sincerity and lifelong devotion. They were married on July 3, 1965, and in July 2025 celebrated 60 years of marriage.
In June of 1966, they welcomed their first child, Alan. Three years later, their daughter Julie was born. As his family grew, Bill faced challenges finding steady work, but he never gave up. After many rejections, he was accepted into the U.S. Treasury Department in Washington, D.C., where he worked as a chemist mixing the ink used for American currency. He later transitioned to a career as a patent examiner, where he reviewed and approved-or denied-new chemical inventions.
Bill retired in 1999, and he and Linda joined Grace Lutheran Church, where he became an active and valued member. He especially enjoyed serving on committees, particularly fellowship and grounds maintenance, always eager to contribute and help wherever he was needed.
Bill deeply loved his parents and made sure that Linda and their children knew them well. The family traveled to Cairo five times, enjoying unforgettable experiences and the warmth of family life there. Bill always brought thoughtful gifts for his parents and ensured they had everything they needed. One memorable adventure involved purchasing new beds for them-requiring visits to multiple stores and hiring help to carry everything up to their third-floor apartment.
On their final visit to Cairo, the family realized Bill's father was suffering from Alzheimer's disease. Tragically, Bill would later inherit this illness himself. He fought a long, difficult battle with courage and dignity.
Bill was always ready to help anyone in need, and Linda could depend on him in every way. His devotion to her was unwavering-even undergoing a painful surgery to stop snoring so she could sleep peacefully. As a final gift of love, Bill wrote his memoirs for his children and grandchildren, a priceless treasure that will be cherished for generations.
Bill is survived by his beloved wife of 60 years, Linda; his son, Alan; his daughter, Julie; and his granddaughters, Alexandra, Rachael, Olivia, and Isabella. He is also survived by four great-grandchildren: Aaria, Raelynn, Jacob, and Charlotte.
Bill will be remembered for his perseverance, generosity, faith, devotion to family, and the quiet strength with which he lived his life.
In lieu of flowers please donate to the Alzheimer's Association. (Link below under Memorial Contributions)