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BORN
1960
DIED
2019
FUNERAL HOME
Naji Kayruz Obituary
Dr. Naji Kayruz, a beloved father, husband, uncle, brother, and friend, returned to the Lord on Monday, February 4, 2019 after he was tragically struck by a car while cycling. Dr. Kayruz, age 58, was a prominent surgeon in San Antonio who practiced for 35 years. He saved many lives and touched countless others. Oftentimes, Dr. Kayruz would operate on his patients without pay, doing so out of the kindness of his own heart. He dedicated his life to serving others.
Dr. Kayruz was born on April 4, 1960 in Beirut, Lebanon to Tanios and Salwa Kairouz. He grew up speaking Arabic and French and was a dedicated student and accomplished athlete. He represented Lebanon in judo during the 1980 Moscow Olympics and received his medical degree from St. Joseph University in Beirut.
While in Lebanon, Dr. Kayruz experienced the horrors of the Lebanese Civil War. During the conflict, he was kidnapped, and his father's restaurant was destroyed. At age 24, he left Lebanon for the United States, even though he spoke little English. He completed his surgical training in Pennsylvania and Ohio, and then moved to Texas, where he would meet the love of his life, Dr. Sandra Vasquez-Kayruz. The two met in September 1992, and within six months, they were engaged. Dr. Kayruz married Dr. Vasquez-Kayruz on October 30, 1993, and this past October, they celebrated 25 years together.
During their second year of marriage and a year after the couple welcomed their first child, his wife was diagnosed with breast cancer. A Maronite Catholic who believed in the power of prayer and sacrifice, Dr. Kayruz decided to fast every day until noon, asking that God spare his wife's life. Since that day 23 years ago, Dr. Kayruz fasted, never eating or drinking before 12 p.m.- even on days when he competed in half-marathons, biathlons, and cycling competitions. And for 23 years, his wife has survived.
Dr. Kayruz was an ultra-athlete. He ran before work, biked afterwards, and sometimes practiced judo in the evenings. He frequently competed in half-marathons, usually placing first or (to his great dismay) second in his age division. Later in his life, he developed a love for cycling. He raced in local and national competitions and even traveled to France to ride several stages of the Tour de France.
Cooking was another of Dr. Kayruz's passions. He was an exquisite chef who prepared traditional Lebanese cuisines like hummus, tabbouleh, kefta, baba ghanoush, shish barak, labneh, and kanafeh. He enjoyed inviting his friends and family over to try his culinary creations, and especially enjoyed making his son's favorite dishes.
Dr. Kayruz loved no one more than his only son, Anthony. When Anthony was little, Dr. Kayruz used to gently flip him onto the bed judo-style and tuck him in every night. He rearranged his busy schedule so he could take Anthony to school every morning and pick him up every afternoon. He loved spending every moment he could with Anthony. He loved hearing his voice, helping him with his homework, and seeing him grow from a boy into a young man who shared his same values of hard work and kindness. Dr. Kayruz's proudest moments came when he saw Anthony succeed.
Dr. Kayruz always dreamed of one day living with his wife, Anthony, and his grandkids-cooking for them, taking them to and from school, and helping them with their homework. This dream won't happen in this world. But his family can't wait to realize it with him in heaven.
Dr. Kayruz was preceded in death by his father, Tanios Kairouz. Dr. Kayruz is survived by his wife, Dr. Sandra Vasquez-Kayruz; son, Anthony Kayruz; mother, Salwa Kairouz; brother, Camille Keyrouz; fraternal twin, Walid Keyrouz; brother, Joe Keirouz; and numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins.
ROSARY
SUNDAY,
FEBRUARY 10, 2019
5:30 P.M.
ST. GEORGE MARONITE CATHOLIC CHURCH
6070 BABCOCK ROAD
MASS
SUNDAY,
FEBRUARY 10, 2019
6:00 P.M.
ST. GEORGE MARONITE CATHOLIC CHURCH
6070 BABCOCK ROAD
If you have any memories of Dr. Kayruz, please send them to his son, Anthony, at RememberingNaji@gmail
.com. Anthony hopes to one day share these memories with his children, so they can appreciate how wonderful Dr. Naji Kayruz was.
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Memories and Condolences
for Naji Kayruz
Sponsored by Porter Loring Mortuary North.
Stella Edwards
April 27, 2021
I'm so sorry to hear he is no longer with us this is heart breaking I really had so much respect for this doctor he saved my life and I never told him how thankful I was I mean yes I told him but throughout the years of becoming a breast cancer survivor I really appreciated his work because I would speak highly of him. My colendences to his wife and family.
Janine Wheeler
February 3, 2021
Dear Sandy and Anthony, here it is 2021 and there has been time to reflect on Naji's impact on so many people. I know you are missing him, and it doesn't get easier. There are people in our lives who made the most of their time on earth and we are lucky and blessed to have been a part of their lives. Please know that I am thinking of you at this important time.
Kurt Weber
February 3, 2021
All condolences remain...
Peter Coulchinsky
December 31, 2019
Dear Sandra and Anthony, I never had the privilege to meet this most amazing husband and father, but after meeting Sandra and watching the most beautiful collage of memories done for him, I feel like I did indeed met him and got to know him. God's Providence is mysterious yet all work unto good. He's now enjoying eternal peace and watching over you both and the rest of the family. I hope to be able to spend time with you as your neighbor and be available to anything and everything you may need. God bless you all!
Griselle Sherman
April 6, 2019
Hi Sandra. This is Griselle Sherman pediatrician that worked with both many years ago. Please received our sincere condolences.
Praying for all Last 2016 I was diagnosed with Stage1 Breast Cancer and after the 'works' doing well. Be OUR GOD always with you and your love ones.
Mira Abou sleiman
February 18, 2019
Hello
I'm Naji's cousin I'm the daughter of his aunt Samira.
Just knew today about the sad news, so devastating . I haven't seen my cousin for more than 25 years but I still remember that kind person we all loved so much .I am praying for him Indeed he is an angel now watching over us . May his soul rest in peace .
My sincere condolences for his family & aunty salwa
Grateful patient
Dorothy Mercado
February 18, 2019
My sincere condolences to Dr. Sandra Kayruz and Anthony.
I was devastated to hear of the sad news on my 55th birthday. Dr. Naji Kayruz helped me through a very difficult time in my life many years ago, I remember him becoming engaged to the love of his life. Before my surgery, he softly put his hand on my forehead and leaned over to look at my eyes and said; "I promise you I will not leave you paralyzed..." And he kept his promise which I will forever be grateful for. He was a great GREAT MAN in every area of his life.
Winston Erevelles
February 13, 2019
Dear Sandy and Anthony, please accept the deepest condolences of the School of Science, Engineering and Technology community at St. Mary's University. I had the privilege of meeting Dr. Naji at a few St. Mary's functions and remember him as a warm and consummate gentleman and physician. Please know that we are here to support you.
Susana Baird
February 12, 2019
Sandy, I am so sorry for the loss that you and Anthony have experienced. My heart and prayers go out to the both of you.I feel honored and grateful to have spent time with Naji and you.
Mark Friedman
February 12, 2019
Dr. Kayruz, performed many colonoscopies on me since the 1990s. I am really saddened at his untimely passing. He was always very kind, professional and understanding. He really cared about people. His passing is a tremendous loss. I will never forget this nice man.
Jaime Arguello
February 11, 2019
Dr. Kayruz, my doctor since 1996, you will be missed. I thank GOD for putting you in my life. I survived cancer and knowing that I would see you annually always brought a smile to my face because I knew that I could trust you completely with my health. You always greeted me with a smile and gave me your full attention which made me feel important to you, not only as a patient but also as a friend. Love and prayers to your family. Jaime and Diana Arguello
DeAnn ,Walter & Allister Busby
February 11, 2019
We are so sorry to hear of the tragic passing of Dr. Kayruz. We met him and his lovely family at many gatherings at the McCrackens home. You all will be in our thoughts and prayers.
Tim Duncan
February 11, 2019
Missed by all at Christus Santa Rosa Alamo Heights
Vanessa Silas
February 11, 2019
The James Silas family extends our sincere sympathy to Sandy and Anthony for the loss of Naji.
Jess and Jeannette Velasquez
February 11, 2019
Thank you for sharing Dr. Kayruz' life with us in the video. He truly was a living saint, and the world is a sadder place without him. We have and will be praying for the Lord's peace to be with all those who loved him.
Philip DeLeon
February 11, 2019
Dr. Kayruz,
It's been close to a year you preformed surgery on me. Upon conclusion of my final follow up, I gave you a side hug and told you, good job! I've never done that to any of my other doctors. Your staff is a reflection of your kind healing. My deepest condolences to Dr. Kayruz's wife and son! I viewed the memory recording they prepared and felt the love you have for your family & especially your son. May God Bless you!
February 11, 2019
To the Dr. Kayruz family and friends, I never met Dr. Kayruz, but I know how important it is to have a kind, caring, compassionate physician in charge of your care. Thank you Dr. Kayruz for truly caring about patients. May Dr. Kayruz's family, friends, and patients have Peace and Strength, Always. God Bless, Michael
Patty Davis
February 10, 2019
So sorry to hear that your loved one has passed away,
May your family find comfort reading the verses found at
Jeremiah 29:11,12 where God lets you know he has a future and a hope for you.
Mary Puente
February 10, 2019
So sorry for your loss.. I met Dr. Kayruz 3 weeks ago and we was so nice and so informative on how he would handle my surgery. Then on 1/31/19 saw him before my surgery and he asked how I was doing....I told him I was scared....His reply was "Me Too"....I know he was just joking, I heard such great things from his staff and people from Christus Santa Rosa Ambulatory. I asked if Dr. Kayruz had done my type of surgery before and they said he was so good....I was so devasted when they called me to cancel my follow-up. I thank God that he put Dr. Kayruz in my life even if it was for a short time...he potentially may have saved my life in the long run....God Bless him and his family....I guess Heaven needed a Spectacular Dr.
Mary Alice Puente.
David Thaddeus
February 10, 2019
A fitting tribute to a life well-lived that was cut short in a most senseless loss. Bless your soul Naji. My thoughts are with you Sandy and Anthony. David Thaddeus. Friend of Walid's. Concord. NC.
Patti Dale
February 10, 2019
Dr. Kayruz was my surgeon/doctor in June 2006 when he diagnosed and treated me for aggressive breast cancer. Because of his expertise in the operating room, he saved my life. I'll never forget him. Also with him and Sandra at Susan Komen Race for the Cure twice.
Nada and Ramsay Fuleihan
February 10, 2019
Dear Keyrouz Family,
Our deepest condolences for the tragic loss that you are enduring. May your memories of the wonderful times you shared with Naji bring you some comfort in this difficult time.
Josie Ramirez
February 10, 2019
My deepest condolence to Dr.Vasquez-Kayruz and Anthony,I have known Dr. Kayruz for 26 years, I will miss him and his smiling face.May the Lord give you strength to carry on.
Patti Dale
February 10, 2019
Dr. Kayruz was one of the best doctors and finest man I have ever known. My sincerest condolences to Sandra and Anthony. May God ease the pain of this loss in the future days.
Belen Wilson
February 10, 2019
Prayers to all the family and friends of Dr Kayruz , what an amazing person he was , thank you for sharing his life experiences lots of moral lesson to learn out of that obituary.
Belen Wilson , San Jose , Ca
Diana, Estrella and Leopoldo III & Family Cavazos
February 10, 2019
Dear Sandra and Anthony, I am so sorry for your loss. Our prayers and condolences are with you. We will be thinking about you during this difficult and unexpected event. It is never easy dealing with a death in the family.
February 10, 2019
TO Dr.Vasquez-Kayruz and family,My sincere condolences to you and the family. Dr. Kayruz was a great Dr. Such a tragedy. As the days go by may you find peace through family and friends. God Bless Dr. Kayruz.
Nelda Angel
Liliane and Fadi Salha
February 10, 2019
Our heart, our prayers and our thoughts are with you during this difficult time . May Naji's soul Rest In Peace and May God give Sandy , Anthony and their family the strength to go through this tragedy with faith and hope.we are heartbroken over this unexpected loss. With Love ,Lliliane and Fadi Salha
Dr Clay Skinner
February 10, 2019
Our thoughts and prayers are with your family.
Dr and Mrs Clay Skinner
Teri Hospers
February 10, 2019
My deepest sympathies to Sandy, Anthony, friends and family. Our medical community, the Saint Mary's Hall community and San Antonio have suffered a heartbreaking loss. I know his legacy lives on in you.
Teresa Stauber
February 10, 2019
I would like to express my deepest condolences to the Kayruz family. My mom and I were patients of Dr. Kayruz many years ago. I will always remember Dr. Kayruz as an excellent surgeon and a kind and compassionate man. The world has lost a " "jewel" but heaven has gained a "gem ." May perpetual light shine upon his soul forever.
Jackie Ramirez
February 10, 2019
My deepest condolences the entire family during this difficult time. I had the pleasure of working with Dr. Kayruz at Alamo Heights Surgery Center. He was the kindest person and treated the nurses and staff with such respect. His sense of humor was like no other. I also had the pleasure of taking care of him in recovery after a minor surgery. My heart aches for you all for this tremdous loss. Praying you find peace during this difficult time.
Roberto and Madeline Menchaca
February 10, 2019
We send our condolences to your family. You will be in our thoughts and prayers.
Moises Soulas
February 10, 2019
For Sandy, Anthony and family. My sincere and deepest sympathy at this difficult time. I first met Naji in Youngstown. During the early years of our practice I had the honor of assisting him in surgery. As I came to know Naji, his austere demeanor soon faded and I came to respect and admire his devotion to his patients. I will remember Naji as a strong, kind and caring person. He will be deeply missed. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.
- Moises M Soulas, MD. Colleague.
February 10, 2019
It was my pleasure to have met you all as a family Naji was a very loving and generous person a soft spoken and devoted husband and father. As a client he was very courteous, respectful and fair. The love for Sandra and Anthony was very obvious. God has one more angel in heaven. Praying for you both Sandra and Anthony at such difficult time.
Connie Ramirez
Lydia Kelly
February 10, 2019
My condolences to Dr Kayruz' family and friends.
Darcee Grivel
February 10, 2019
Our family is praying BIG for y'all! We will never forget the fun tennis tournaments our sons traveled to play in Zats.. and playing in the clinics at the Dominion. Memories are priceless, hold on to yours!!! You will be in our thoughts and prayers daily!!!
- Darcee, Gavin, Leon & Gabrielle Grivel
Sylvia Banda
February 10, 2019
My condolences to his family and friends
He was a great doctor
And now he is an angel
Russell and Karen Seal
February 10, 2019
Sandra and Anthony,
Our prayers are with you during this crisis in your life. May God's love protect you and help you through this time. Your husband was a very skilled and dedicated man who the world will mourn with you.
Darel Dennis Jaramillo II
February 10, 2019
Sandy,
My sincerest condolences. I will always remember the great times we spent with Naji. I will miss him. I'm so glad I was able to see him a few weeks ago, and I will cherish that memory and his smile. My heart goes out to you, Anthony and your family.
I pray you and your family have peace and comfort during this difficult time. God Bless you.
Janine Wheeler
February 10, 2019
Sandy and Anthony, my heart breaks for you. What a remarkable life Naji led, he touched so many lives. He was brave and courageous. The kindness he showed to others will never be forgotten. You and Anthony and the rest of the Kayruz family are in my prayers.
George Vasquez
February 9, 2019
Sandy and Anthony, words cannot express how shocked I was to hear the news about Naji. Suffice to say that my thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time and going forward. God must've desperately needed another angel in heaven to have called Naji so soon. May God bless you and your family.
Dilma Ruiz, MD
February 9, 2019
May the Lord fill you with the grit that Naji always had. That is my prayer for Sandy, Anthony and all of us whose life's are attached to him either professional,personally or spiritual. May his incredible inner strength always stay with us. He worked real hard to let it show by building a beautiful family, a solid surgical career and outstanding athletic accomplishment. We will miss him for sure, but at the end of the day, we will remember how strong he wanted us to remember him. And so we will.
Margy Gutierrez, RN
February 9, 2019
Deepest sympathy to Kayruz family. Sending prayers during this most difficult time. I enjoyed working with Dr. Kayruz at Downtown Baptist Hospital and GAB Endoscopy Center. He was indeed a great surgeon as well as a wonderful human being. He as truly gained his place in heaven. Dr. Kayruz, may you Rest In Peace, Sir. It has a pleasure working with you. God bless you and your family.
Ray Seballos
February 9, 2019
We are deeply saddened to hear of Dr. Kayruz's tragic passing. We were blessed to have him as our Chief Resident during surgical residency. He was a good man, and surgeon.
Karen Johnson
February 9, 2019
Sandy and Anthony, I am heartbroken for you and hold you in my heart and prayers daily. I will never forget spending a great evening in your home enjoying Lebanese food and your company.
Veronica Ramos
February 9, 2019
Sandy...Our deepest concolences for your greatest loss to you and your family. May God grant you peace and may he guide you and your family comfort. Our prayers are with your and your son Anthony during this difficult time. Our thoughts are with you and may his soul be blessed and in enternal peace.
Monica Caban
February 9, 2019
My deepest condolences for the Kayruz family. I personally did not know him but hear he was a Godsend. May he Rest In Peace. God Bless his family during this enduring time. My heart and prayers go out to his family and friends.
Kurt Weber
February 9, 2019
All condolences to the family... I too did not personally know Dr. Kayruz, but I honor his memory, and will do so always.
Juan Bonilla
February 9, 2019
Sandy and Anthony, my heart aches horribly. I am with you in prayers and thoughts. Naji will be missed while we are here on this earth, but you will be reunited, as is God's plan.
Juan Bonilla
Dawn McQueen-Hargrove
February 9, 2019
Sending our prayers to the family.
Gini Rodriguez
February 9, 2019
Sandy & Anthony, we want to extend our heartfelt condolences to you. Our thoughts and prayers will be with you in the upcoming days and weeks.
Your friends,
Oscar, Zack & Gini Rodriguez
Ramzi Azzam
February 9, 2019
Our sincere condolences to the Kayruz family. I did not personally know Dr Naji, but reading his obituary made me very sad for the loss of this great man. May his soul rest in eternal peace and may his family find comfort in the memories of his good deeds
ahmed attia
February 9, 2019
My deepest condolences to the whole family. We will always remember you Dr. Kayruz. You were my best friend, my coworker, and my family. I am thankful to have crossed paths with you. You will be missed, Naji.
-Ahmed Attia
Sandra Bass
February 8, 2019
My thoughts and prayers go out to the entire family. He will be so sorely missed. He was a wonderful doctor, one of the best. Rest In Peace.
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