Rahim Salimi

Rahim Salimi, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and cherished friend, passed away on July 5, 2023. Born on July 17, 1951, in Shiraz, Iran, he was the son of Majit and Mozayan Salimi.

He grew up in Shiraz, Iran surrounded by his family and friends after graduating high school he joined the Iranian Military, proudly serving his country. Following his military service, he embarked on an entrepreneurial path in the automotive industry. Traveling across the country, he would source and acquire automobiles for resale, displaying his keen business acumen. In the 1970s, Rahim made the courageous decision to immigrate to the United States, seeking new opportunities and a brighter future.

Continuing his pursuit of knowledge, Rahim attended South Dakota State University in Brookings, South Dakota, where he obtained a degree in Civil Engineering. It was during his time at the university that he met his future wife, Janet, during the graduation ceremony of a mutual friend. In 1985, Rahim and Janet exchanged vows and began a beautiful journey of love and companionship.

Settling in Houston, Texas, Rahim embraced his passion for entrepreneurship, demonstrating his versatile skills in various fields. However, his heart remained tied to the automotive industry, where he found joy and fulfillment. Rahim's dedication and perseverance in his work earned him the admiration and respect of his colleagues and clients.

In the course of their journey together, Rahim and Janet were blessed with three children: Cassie, Joseph, and Matthew. Rahim cherished his role as a father and took immense pride in watching his children grow and thrive. Later in life, he found profound joy in being a PopPop to his two adored grandchildren, Louis and Cameron.

Rahim's love and presence will forever be etched in the hearts of his family. He leaves behind his beloved wife, Janet, daughter Cassie Downing, son-in-law Mike Downing, his treasured grandchildren, Lou and Cam Downing, sons Joseph and Matthew, daughter-in-law Lesley, and his sister-in-law Jackie Aleck. He is also survived by his siblings Parii, Mohammad, Javad, Jaffar (sister-in-law Susan), and Shala (brother-in-law Merdot), along with a large extended family primarily residing in South Dakota.

Rahim is preceded in death by his parents, Majit and Mozayan Salimi, his parents-in-law, Hamad and Ann Aleck, and his brother-in-law, Charles Aleck. Although his physical presence is no longer with us, Rahim's memory will forever live on in the hearts of the many family and friends he touched throughout his lifetime. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.