Obituary: Sami Eladhari, 32

The following is from DeVito Funeral Home.

Sami Eladhari, of Arlington, 32, passed away on Wednesday, June 18, 2014.

Born in Cambridge on Aug. 1, 1981, Sami was the beloved son of Francine Brasseur and Moncef Eladhari, devoted brother of Mounia Pesl and her husband Mark Pesl, Karim Eladhari, and loving uncle to Omar Raad, Michelle, Nicole and Kathleen Pesl, Alexander and Mitchell Eladhari.

After graduating Arlington High School in 2000, Sami went on to Springfield College where he received a bachelor’s in communications/sports journalism in 2004. He furthered his education with a master’s in multimedia sports journalism from Universidad Europea de Madrid in 2005. A natural linguist – in addition to English, he spoke French, Spanish and Italian – Sami spent a year in Alcala de Henares, successfully completing the Advanced DELE diploma in Spanish.

Sami’s real passion, however, was for soccer. His love of the game kept him much in demand as a coach for numerous Boston areas camps and teams, notably AC Milan, Sachems FC, FC Greater Boston Bolts in Revere and Soccer 101 Academy. He was the Lexington High boys’ varsity soccer coach, where he was admired for his integrity and dedication.

Sami’s zest for life, sense of humor and positive disposition were an inspiration to anyone who’s ever met him. A seasoned traveler and sincere friend, Sami had companions from all walks of life in all corners of the world. Despite the enduring burden of an ailing body, Sami never complained, but chose to live his life with gusto and passion, devoting himself to the pursuits that fueled him. In addition to his family, Sami leaves behind the many friends, colleagues, students and players who were deeply touched by his light.

A foundation has been established in Sami’s memory, to continue his lifelong work of bringing his love of soccer to young people. Donations can be sent to The Sami Eladhari Foundation, P.O. Box 203, Arlington, MA 02476.