Makram Y. Nicolas

Makram Yanni Nicolas, a man of humble beginnings who embraced the world with kindness, generosity, and a remarkable spirit, passed away on June 21, 2023, in his beloved home in Montreux, Switzerland. He was surrounded by the love of his family and friends.

Born on October 22, 1944, in Cairo, Egypt, Makram was the son of a tailor and a seamstress. His early years were marked by resilience and hard work. After his father passed away when he was 11 years old, he worked diligently to support his mother Matilda and sisters, Aida and Nadia, while pursuing his studies. Makram graduated from a Catholic French school in Cairo, Egypt, ranking at the bottom of his class. He then obtained a bachelor degree in accountancy and began working as an accountant for the Egyptian government.

In the early 1970s, Makram won the green card lottery for the United States of America, which led him to Buffalo, New York, and quickly to Los Angeles. There, he thrived both personally and professionally. Starting as a bookkeeper with minimal knowledge of the language, Makram spent 19 years at Family Savings and Loans, a minority bank in Crenshaw, where he rose through the ranks to become the Senior Vice President & part owner, all the while obtaining a masters degree in finance from Pepperdine University. He played a pivotal role in establishing and leading the bank's real estate division. Later, he ventured into custom home development & construction and, following the economic crash of 1992, he founded FG Property Management, an owner and operator of apartment buildings in California and Texas. Makram left an indelible mark on the real estate and banking industries.

Beyond his professional achievements, Makram had a zest for life. He reveled in travel, exploring the world alongside his beloved wife, Shadia, and son, Marc. Whether it was experiencing family vacations across Europe, South America, Egypt and the United States, immersing himself in the history and locations of Jesus in Israel, or engaging in business ventures in Saudi Arabia, Lebanon, and Paris, Makram embraced every opportunity to create cherished memories. He had a passion for antiquing, collecting 18th-century art and artifacts, savoring French wine, smoking Cuban cigars, and enjoying rare Scotches. A skilled stock trader, he continuously studied the economy, seeking to expand and share his knowledge.

Makram's warmth, care, and boundless humor endeared him to all who knew him. His generosity knew no bounds, and he made a difference in the lives of others, both near and far. While he did participate in philanthropy, he preferred direct involvement with those in need to maximize the impact he could have on people's lives.

Among his favorite experiences was celebrating his 50th anniversary with Shadia on the iconic Royal Scotsman Railway, a testament to their enduring love. Makram cherished songs such as Frank Sinatra's "I Did It My Way," Louis Armstrong's "What a Wonderful World," and Edith Piaf's "La Vie En Rose," which echoed his zest for life and appreciation of its beauty.

Makram is survived by his devoted wife, Shadia; loving son, Marc; caring sister, Aida; and a multitude of close friends around the globe. His embodiment of fatherly spirit and unwavering support touched the lives of countless individuals, serving as an inspiration and source of guidance.

In his memory, the family kindly invites you to consider donating to the Magdi Yacoub Global Heart Foundation, an organization close to Makram's heart. As a board member, he was deeply involved in their mission to provide comprehensive cardiac care, free of charge, to vulnerable populations in upper Egypt and Africa, or City of Hope where he was also a board of governors member.

Makram Yanni Nicolas will be remembered for his remarkable journey, unwavering love for his family, and commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of others. His legacy lives on through the work, generosity, and compassionate hearts of Shadia and Marc, and his sister Aida.