Shaikh Ismail Tissa

It is with deep sadness that we announce that Shaikh Ismail Tissa passed away on January 8, 2025, at his home in DeKalb, Illinois, at the age of 69. His wife, Sim, and daughter, Kathryn, who had been constantly by his side, were with him when he passed.

Born in Johor, Malaysia, Shaikh was among the first waves of Malaysian students to study at Northern Illinois University. During this transformative chapter of his life, he adopted the United States as his home, where he would eventually return to raise his family.

Shaikh was a lifelong learner with a curiosity that shaped both his career and his personal pursuits. A talented computer programmer, his skills opened doors to opportunities that brought him to Thailand, Canada, the UK, France, and Australia. Following his retirement from NIU, he pursued and completed two Master's degrees.

A brilliant man with a wicked sense of humor, Shaikh's irreverent wit brought levity and life to any conversation. He valued the power of storytelling, avidly listening to others' experiences, and eagerly sharing tales from his own rich and well-traveled life. In addition to his technical acumen, Shaikh's passions were well-rounded and included karate and the martial arts, music, and the metaphysical mysteries of the world.

He is survived by his wife Sim, son Omar, and daughter Kathryn; and his brother Omar, sister Mai, and sister Aeya.

Cremation rites have been entrusted to Finch Funeral Home 310 Oak St. DeKalb, IL 60115 815-758-3841.