Harb Nasif Harb

1928 - 2024

Harb Nasif Harb

January 29, 1928 - December 9, 2024

With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Harb Nasif Harb, who departed this life peacefully on December 9, 2024, at the remarkable age of 97. Funeral services to honor his memory will be held on Saturday, December 14, 2024, at 11:30 a.m. at St. George Greek Orthodox Church in Rock Island, Illinois; visitation will be before the service starting at 10 a.m.

Harb, a renowned entrepreneurial legend, activist, father, and "sido" was born in Ramallah, Palestine in 1928 to Nasif and Zarifeh Harb. A proud Palestinian, Harb was a beacon of resilience, strength, and dignity, leaving behind a legacy that will endure for generations.

Harb dedicated his life to his family, his community, and the Palestinian cause, standing steadfastly against the injustices of occupation. Despite the challenges he faced, he lived a life of purpose and accomplishment. Through his unwavering determination and entrepreneurial spirit, he built several successful businesses that contributed to enhancing economic opportunities in Palestine. As a visionary businessman, Harb founded a private credit system and modernized the distribution of television and radio to enable access to such technology, which was very limited at that time. He believed that access to information is vital to enhancing community development, participation, and empowerment. He later founded the first cement-producing and distribution company in Palestine utilizing the latest technology to build the infrastructure and enhance economic development in his country.

Known for his sharp intellect and unyielding determination, Harb refused to let the challenges of blindness from macular degeneration compromise his independence. With the support of family and friends, he continued to live on his own after the passing of his beloved wife, Salwa Harb, who preceded him in death.

A man of great wisdom and vitality, Harb was fluent in Arabic, English, and Hebrew, maintaining his mental acuity and good health until his final days. His strength of spirit and very positive attitude "mutamayyez" (exceptional) was an inspiration to all who knew him.

Harb was deeply involved in his community, with voluntarism being a cornerstone of his life. He made a lasting impact wherever he served, leaving a strong legacy of dedication and service. Harb served as an elected member of the Ramallah Municipal Council and the Chairperson of the Red Crescent Society in Palestine. He was also a valuable member of several boards such as the Electricity Company of Jerusalem, the Water Public Company, and the Ramallah Summer Resort Company.

Harb's ability to forge connections and bring people together was unparalleled. Respected by all who knew him as "El Khal" (uncle), he was often called upon to resolve conflicts with wisdom, empathy, and fairness. Harb instilled in his children and grandchildren the values of discipline, hard work, and lifelong learning, creating a lasting influence on future generations. His guidance and support remain the bedrock of his family's success and character.

Harb will be remembered for his leadership, entrepreneurial brilliance, and deep love for his family. His memory lives on in the values he taught, the lives he touched, and the legacy he leaves behind.

He leaves behind a loving family and countless friends, including his four children, 11 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren. A meaningful and unique tradition that captures the spirit of Harb's bond with his grandchildren is his cherished call-and-response family chant: "Meen Karkoor Seeedo?" (who is adored by their grandfather?"); to which his grandchildren joyfully replied: "Eeeeno." (We all are!)

Harb will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him. As we say goodbye, we imagine him sharing this final chant, not with sorrow but with the same joy and love that united our family through the years.

Harb is survived by his daughters, Amal (Dr. Fayez Shamieh), Dr. Taroub (Dr. Ghassan) Faramand; sons, Dr. Nidal (Dr. Sana) Harb, Dr. Gus (Dr. Irene) Harb; grandchildren Dr. Samer (Jenna), Attorney Ramez (Annisa), Dr. Catherine, Attorney Razan (Chris), Dr. Harb Jr., Dr. Rawan (Dr. Mike), Hanin (Dr. Steven), Attorney Ghassan, Elizabeth (Ryan), Dr. Christine and David; great-grandchildren; Rami, Karam, Nara, Rhea, Adeeb, Ameera, Noah, Zealand, Sasha, Ava, Rennan and Fayez (Fozzy).

May he rest in peace and eternal harmony.

"Like the Olive Tree, Your Roots are Deep in Our Hearts"

Online condolences may be left to Harb's family by visiting www.weertsfh.com.