It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Dr. Wayel Kaakaji, a highly respected neurosurgeon, dedicated educator, and beloved member of our community. Dr. Kaakaji passed away, leaving behind a legacy of excellence in patient care and a profound impact on the lives of countless individuals.
Dr. Kaakaji served the Northwest Indiana community for over 25 years, earning the respect of colleagues, patients, and students alike. A graduate of the University of Texas Medical School, Dr. Kaakaji completed his neurosurgery residency at the Cleveland Clinic and further honed his skills through fellowship training at Oregon Health Sciences University. His expertise, coupled with his humility and dedication, made him an extraordinary clinician and an exceptional teacher.
Dr. Kaakaji was not only known for his skill in neurosurgery but also for his passion for educating the next generation of healthcare providers. His work as a preceptor for Physician Assistant (PA) students left a lasting impact on the program and on the future clinicians he mentored. Many students were fortunate to learn from Dr. Kaakaji, who instilled in them the values of compassionate care, precision, and professionalism. His contributions to the field and to the lives of his students are immeasurable, and his legacy will continue to inspire those he taught.
As a husband, father, son, brother, and uncle, Dr. Kaakaji was deeply loved by his family. He was the beloved husband of Roula Asaf, the devoted father of Maya, Karam, and Lillian, the son of Mohammad Kaakaji and Souna Nasri Kaakaji, and the brother of Yazan Kaakaji (Mouana Malki) and Rami Kaakaji (Maria Demashkieh Kaakaji). He was also a loving uncle to his nephews Omar, Kenan, and Sammy, and his nieces Hana and Teema.
In this difficult time, we extend our deepest condolences to Dr. Kaakaji’s family, loved ones, colleagues, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. We ask Allah to grant him forgiveness, elevate his rank, make his grave a garden from the gardens of Paradise, and grant him the highest levels of Jannah. Ameen.
We pray that Allah provides strength and patience to Dr. Kaakaji’s family as they navigate this heartbreaking loss.
Janazah Prayer Information:
Date: Friday, December 5
Location: Northwest Indiana Islamic Center
9803 Colorado St, Crown Point, IN 46307
- 1:15 PM: Second Jumuah Prayer (Janazah attendees should come to the second prayer)
- 2:03 PM: Asr Prayer and Janazah
- Burial: 3:00 PM at Chapel Lawn Memorial Gardens
8178 Cline Ave, Crown Point, IN 46307
Important Parking Notice:
Due to parking limitations, families are encouraged to carpool as much as possible.
Attendees of the first Jumuah prayer should leave immediately after the prayer and refrain from standing in the lobby.
Dr. Kaakaji’s passing is a loss that will be deeply felt by all who knew him. His memory will live on through the many lives he touched—both in the operating room and in the classroom. May he rest in eternal peace.