Elias G. Nassif

Elias G. Nassif

Cedar Rapids

Elias G. Nassif, 82, of Cedar Rapids, passed away on Saturday, March 7, 2026, at Mercy Medical Center, surrounded by his loving family. Visitation: 5:00 to 7:00 PM on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, at St. George Orthodox Church, with the Trisagion service at 7:00 PM. Funeral: 10:00 AM on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, also at St. George Orthodox Church, with burial at St. George Orthodox Cemetery.

Elias was born on November 22, 1943, to George and Nasseemeh Nassif in Ain Arab, Lebanon. At age 15, he immigrated to the United States with his younger brother, Edward. The two arrived in Marion, Iowa, on December 24, 1958, where they were welcomed by many relatives. Over time, Elias and Edward proudly helped the rest of their family migrate to the United States.

Elias attended Regis High School and graduated from Muscatine Community College. Elias and his wife, Souham "Susie" (Haddy), were both from the same village in Ain Arab, Lebanon. They married on February 25, 1968, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and built a beautiful life side by side as business owners and loving parents. Shortly after marrying, Elias served honorably in the United States Army for four years and was in West Germany.

Together, Elias and Souham owned and operated several successful restaurants in the Cedar Rapids area while raising their three daughters, Laura, Melinda, and Cynthia. Elias was an accomplished bowler, achieving multiple 300 games. He also loved spending time at the casino, making people laugh, and was happiest when surrounded by family. Whether he was behind the grill or sharing a joke, he made people feel welcome. His story is one of hard work, humor, and the belief that good things come from honest work and an open heart.

Elias is survived by his daughters, Laura (Greg) McCoy, Melinda Nassif, and Cynthia (Jeremy) McCann; grandchildren, Zackery Scott, Payton McCoy, and Jaelynn, Aden, and Luke McCann; brothers, Shaker (Rose) Nassif of Cedar Rapids and Dr. Edward (Ranya) Nassif of Ames; sisters, Rose Ziadeh and Gladys (Izhaua) Elorm, both of Cedar Rapids; and many nieces, nephews, and extended family.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Souham "Susie" Nassif; his parents, George and Nasseemeh Nassif; his sister, Salimeh Chahine; his brother, Nicola Nassif; and his nephew, George Nassif.

Memorials may be made in Elias's memory and directed to Laura McCoy. A fund will be created in Elias's name by the Nassif family.

Online condolences may be shared at www.cedarmemorial.com under Obituaries.