Ramzi Y. Hermiz ’53

Ramzi came to Princeton from Baghdad University in Iraq and majored in mechanical engineering. After graduation Ramzi returned to Baghdad, where he put his Princeton engineering degree to good use supervising the construction of numerous infrastructure projects.

While in Iraq, he met his wife, Marcelle Boghossian, a nursing student. They married in 1958 and settled in Chicago. Ramzi became chief engineer for a global manufacturing company and held various executive positions. In 1982, he established his own consulting firm representing European manufacturing companies doing business in the United States.

Beginning in 1988, Ramzi focused his time, energy, and resources on supporting his church, community, and the Jesuits. Throughout his life, Ramzi passionately followed the turmoil in the Middle East. He led humanitarian and relief efforts to provide aid to Iraqi civilians impacted by war and poverty, including the relocation of refugees.

Ramzi died of cancer Dec. 30, 2010, in Addison, Ill. Marcelle said, “Ramzi never forgot his Princeton experience and he was very proud and appreciative of the many opportunities it provided him over the years.”

In addition to Marcelle, Ramzi is survived by his children, Yasmeen, Laila, Nadia, Ramzi, Reema, and Aram; and 11 grandchildren.