Obituary
Nasrollah Khosrowshahi, a beloved figure known for his resilient spirit and quick wit, passed away on December 24, 2025, at the age of 102, in Briarcliff Manor, NY. Born on December 20, 1923, in Tabriz, Iran, to a mercantile family of six brothers and one sister, he lived a life filled with love, adventure, laughter, and learning.
Nasrollah immigrated to the United States in 1950 to establish the US arm of his family’s pharmaceutical conglomerate. He and his wife of 52 years, Faith Iman Khosrowshahi, née Knobel, who predeceased him in 2008, opened their home and hearts to extended family who fled Iran’s Islamic Revolution in 1979. Nasrollah was devoted to keeping the large family together, and he succeeded. His brothers, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, their spouses, and the generations that came after them all knew him intimately.
Nasrollah was a consummate entrepreneur and he encouraged this spirit in everyone. No idea was too small or useless, no endeavor to build or create was futile. He believed that obstacles, whether political, personal, or societal, were simply challenges to be met and conquered.
Nasrollah was renowned for his humor and generosity. He had a penchant for practical jokes, with April Fool’s Day being his favorite occasion to showcase his elaborate tricks. His love for games like poker and canasta, along with his enthusiasm for volleyball and musicals, made him a vibrant member of any gathering. A world traveler, he enjoyed discussing everything from foreign policy to stock market investments to Judge Judy.
He was a passionate learner and often quoted the Persian proverb, From cradle to grave, seek knowledge. His philosophy, “Everything in Moderation,” reflected his balanced approach to life. Nasrollah’s multi-generational and diverse social circle was a testament to his ability to connect with people from all walks of life, leaving a lasting impression on everyone he met. His memories and experiences endowed him with a rich tapestry of stories that he shared freely.
Known affectionately by many names—Dad, Papa, Uncle, Nasi, Ned, Dr. Kay, and Number One—Nasrollah was a cherished presence. Beloved father to Susanne, Marcene, Kevin, and Cameron, he will be deeply missed by them and their partners—Shahram, Sander, Markela, and Laura—and by his grandchildren Darian; Darius, Roxanna, and their father Ali; Sophia and Samir; Liam and Ella, and his great-grandchildren Kian, Ava, and Aria.
Celebration of Life
Saturday March 21, 2026
1:00pm Eastern Time
Nasrollah’s family invites you to join us for a virtual celebration of life to honor his life and legacy. An interactive online reception will take place immediately following.
Photo Gallery
Unfortunately, I will be on a plane during the Celebration, so I wanted to make sure to post about my time with the legend.
I had the privilege of knowing Dr. Kaye for almost ten years. Those who know me, probably recall our annual April Fools’ competitions.. a testament to his remarkable sense of humor. However, what truly distinguished Dr. Kaye to me was his kindness, respect, and the love he had for his family.
From the time I first met him, he always gave me grace. He was incredibly patient no matter what was happening and always made sure to ask how everyone was. He had this amazing ability to make those around him feel like family and it was such a pleasure to be in his company.
I will miss his spirit, his infectious laugh, our dinners and conversations. I consider myself blessed to have known such an extraordinary man.
Thank you for this comment, Andrea. I think you talked to him on the phone more often that I did! We will miss you at the Celebration, but have fun wherever you’re going. My Dad would’ve wanted that.
When I first came to the U.S. for college, my uncle and aunt became like a father and mother to me. They were two of the sweetest, most caring people I have ever known.
One of my favorite memories is when my uncle took me to my college in Virginia. A photo of that day even appeared in my college newspaper. I wish I still had it.
I love this photo of us from a few years ago. I always bragged that my uncle was 95 but looked 75.
Everyone who knew him knows how wonderful, kind, and generous he was, and how he was always ready with his humor. He made an impression on people of all ages, and we all loved his joking.
WI will always be grateful for who he was and for his love and care throughout my life.
I love this photo! Thank you for taking the time to share this memory, Haideh joon. I love this photo! Just a few weeks ago, Hamid was telling me about how my dad drove him to college too. Seems like you guys got a lot of quality car time with him. 😉
When I first came to the U.S. for college, my uncle and aunt became like a father and mother to me. They were two of the sweetest, most caring people I have ever known.
One of my favorite memories is when my uncle took me to my college in Virginia. A photo of that day even appeared in my college newspaper. I wish I still had it.
I love this photo of us from a few years ago. I always bragged that my uncle was 95 but looked 75.
Everyone who knew him knows how wonderful, kind, and generous he was, and how he was always ready with his humor. He made an impression on people of all ages, and we all loved his joking.
I will always be grateful for who he was and for his love and care throughout my life.