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Ali Jafari Obituary

March 23, 1953 - October 13, 2008
Ali Jafari, age 55, has passed on to a better life. He is survived by a brother (Ray), five sisters (Soghra, Shookoh, Shahin, Esmat, Parvin), his daughter (Jennifer), and son (Anthony). He has also left his longtime girlfriend (Teresa), and his many, many friends. Ali lived the American dream. He came to this country from Iran, in the late 70' to attend college and graduated from the University of Southern Colorado. He moved to Colorado Springs in the early 80's and began an auto repair business, starting with a two bay facility and grew it to be one of the largest and most successful repair facilities in Southern Colorado. Amazingly successful as a businessman, he was unstoppable in other aspects of his life. He became a pilot in the early 90's and went on to achieve many type ratings demonstrating his incredible ability and determination. He will be remembered most for his generosity, quick wit, caring eyes and honest living. A kind man who could never learn to say no, his kindness and love have touched unknown numbers of people. The world is darkened for his departure, but a better place having had him in it. He will be greatly missed by many. A celebration of life will be held at the Antlers Hilton Hotel, Summit Ballroom, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 18, 2008.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Gazette from Oct. 15 to Oct. 17, 2008.

Memories and Condolences
for Ali Jafari

Sponsored by Mohammad Jafari.

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Diana Inskeep

January 20, 2021

Ali was a friend in the early 80s, he was kind and generous. I came across this picture, my sister did his hair in a competition and won. He was a dear friend to me and my sister Rosemary.

Rhonda Harrison

November 7, 2008

Ali,You are the greatest person ever,I only met you for a few minutes before I knew you had the perfect car for Me! And you were so nice to me even though you didn't really know me.Wayne thought that you were a Wonderful Man! He enjoyed doing work for you when you needed him. God Bless You and Your Family! Our Thoughts and Prayers are with you ,Teresa, Anthony and Jennifer

Mikiel Ghelieh

October 25, 2008

I was very saddened to here about the loss of your dad. I decided today to tell you all a few stories today about Ali Jafari. since the day I was born he only had one name as that was UNCLE. I remember going to his shop with my mother when I was 5. My parents had just divorced and he looked at me and my twin brother and picked us both up in his strong capable arms and carried us over to the shop where a Mercedes was being worked on.
He put us down and went to his wallet and gave us both $50. I remember thinking how much candy could be boughten (what else does a 5yr want). it wasn't about the money , but about the love. The last time I saw him my brother and I stopped by the shop on a friday night. And Uncle did what he does best, opened up is life to us. he sat us down and told everybody who would listen (and there were many) that these are Hadi's boys and Hadi is like a brother to me so these are my boys. And that is how we felt and will continue to feel. I will always remember him in those blue overalls picking us all up and caring us all to a better place.

Rosemary Barge

October 23, 2008

Jennifer and Anthony,

I along with many others have been so saddened by your father's passing. I have many memories of Ali that go back to the late 70's when I lived in Colo. Spgs. Par Akradi, my former husband was of course how I met Ali. Their friendship was deeper than friends - more like brothers as you know. I dug through some old pictures and found some of Ali and your mother sitting by the river with us in the mountains one day when we were picnicing. Back at that time both Ali and Par had big black hair and beards. Their "fro's" could rival anybodys in those days!

If I could only have one word to describe Ali, it would be generous. If I could have many they would be kind, thoughtful, compassionate, loving, fun and POSITIVE. Never a negative word did I hear from Ali. Par and I both ended up in Southern California and when Ali would come to visit he always made a point to include Abram and I in his visits. We enjoyed your visits and I won't forget that you too Anthony helped Abe and I pick out his first PC and set it up. A chip off the old block - and that is the best compliment any son could have if they were fortunate to have Ali for their Dad! My heart and prayers are with you Jennifer and Anthony. Your dad was one of a kind and truly a great man. Par and Abram were so deeply saddened as am I, but in the spirit of Ali's positive take on life, we will all hopefully try to immulate what he taught us about living to the fullest, treating everyone with helpful kindness and being the best example of what a human on this earth should be. Love to you both. Rosie

Doug Briggman

October 22, 2008

To all who knew Ali, he was an amazing man that loved life, liked all people he associated with and was true to what he said. I will miss him as a friend associate. God bless and keep him.

Brian Millburn

October 21, 2008

Jennifer, Anthony, Family and Friends,
My son, Matthew Millburn, called me last night to tell us of Ali's passing. Our greatest sympathies to you on the loss of a great and loving father and a wonderful friend. The caring, committed example of taking care of others that he set for us will remain strong in our memories to the end of our lives.

Corrie Rantal-McClure

October 21, 2008

My father, John Rantal was introduced to Ali over a decade ago. Since then our family has bought and had all of our cars through Auto Import Tech. As a young college girl through now being a mother of toddlers it has always been such a blessing to know that my safety was in the best hands. Ali always treated me, and my family, like family and we will always be grateful.

Arthur Porter

October 20, 2008

Anthony,

Your dad was one of a kind. A true gentleman and a great friend. I enjoyed working with him and having him work on my race cars. He always had time to talk and more importantly, always had time to listen to a friend. 'What can I do for you' , 'How can I help', 'Is there anything I can do'. These are the kinds of words from Ali. Nothing ever negative or derogatory. He thought of himself as one lucky dude and he was indeed.

Ali, my friend, I will miss you and miss hearing your voice on the phone. You are truly one of a kind. See you again sometime.

Love,

Arthur Porter

Tina Hays

October 19, 2008

Dear Ali,

I had to go to the Celebration of Your Life to discover if you were the very nice man that I met over 20 years ago.

As I observed the video and asked some questions I discovered you were this man. You had a shop on N. Nevada and I was introduced to you through my daughter, Dusty Hays. You had been very kind in helping her with a vehicle and for that reason she introduced me to you when I needed some repair work done.

As everyone has said, you were kind, helpful and full of smiles.
God bless your soul as you have gone to the other side. may you and my lovely daughter Dusty enjoy the same spirit and laughter that you shared while here on this earth.

God Bless you and your family,

Tina Hays

Dan & Carlene Betz

October 18, 2008

Ali Jafari
1953-2008
We know that dash represents all the time
that Ali spent here on earth.
Those that loved him
know well what that line is worth.
For it matters not , how much we own;
The cars..the house... the cash.
What matters is how we live and loved,
and how we spent our dash.

Ali was so generous, kind, caring and giving to not just my family but to everyone. He loved his children and although his time here on earth was short. It was so full of life that we know we were truly blessed to know him. He was a true friend and we will miss him. May God keep you in the palm of his hand and help you now through this difficult time. There was no greater man than your father. You are blessed with his memory. Hold it always close to your heart and he will never be far away. We know we have lost a great man, but we also know his spirit touched many souls and will live on forever. With Heartfelt sympothy in the loss of your dear father, Dan and Carlene Betz

October 18, 2008

My friendship with Ali began over 20 years ago. I knew immediately we would become good friends. It did not take long to realize he was the kindest most honest and generous person I have ever met. My family and I are deeply saddened. Mr. Ali will never be forgotten. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and many friends.

God Bless

Kenny Paradeis

Kamy & Alice Khosravi

October 17, 2008

This is to celebrate Ali’s life. A man who was so generous, who had so much love for others, who was loved by so many, who touched so many hearts, and who was simply a good soul. As they say in Persian proverbs God only takes the good ones first and Ali sure was among the best of them. Ali’s life was about loving others, caring for others, providing for others, and simply being there for others. May God (Ahuramazda) bless your soul and may your memory live among us for ever. Our hearts go to you Jeni and Anthony and may God bless you with your dad’s love, wisdom, generosity, and simply with being who he was, Ali. We will miss the twinkle in his eyes.

Kamy & Alice Khosravi

Gail Hawkins

October 17, 2008

A TRUE GENTLEMAN! If EVERY young man growing up today would learn from this man - well, we would have a better society! Ali was a pleasure to know, even if only through my business association with him, He was a DELIGHTFUL HUMAN BEING who gave to the fullest and knew what it was to enjoy life and the people he met along the way. Personable, Honest, Sincere and Generous, He knew the meaning of Customer Service in his business - No wonder he was a success. He will be missed by Everyone who knew him -and Trust me - those of you who did not know him have no idea of what you have missed. My prayers, and those of my family are with his family. THANK YOU for our association with him. God Rest His Soul. He was a Gentleman in EVERY sense of the Word!

Jamie DeMeter

October 17, 2008

Jenny and Anthony, Thank you for sharing you father with me as I too,like many other have thought of Ali as a second father. He is a remarkable man, I am so blessed to have had him in my life and be apart of my family. Please remember my family is your family. You, both are in my thoughts everyday, forever. Love Jamie DeMeter

Patty Parang

October 17, 2008

Joy lies ahead....and troubles soon behind. He lived a wonderful life here....and his friends and family that surrounded him were divine. He is in a better place above, although we miss his smile. For those who believe, we will all see him after a while.

Ali was a wonderful man and family friend who knew my father Jim Parang for many, many years. I will remember his loving smile and gentle heart.

To the family.....I am so sorry for your loss. God Bless you and hold you close to His heart during this time of separation.

Blessings

Andy Guidry

October 17, 2008

I knew Ali when he was first working for another auto repair shop on N. Nevada in late 1978/79 time frame. He was a good person and very quickly became a trusted friend that I have thought about all these years even after leaving the area in 1989. I remember him first opening his shop and recommending him to everyone because I knew he would take good care of them.
Ali, you will be greatly missed but will always be in our hearts. Rest now and continue to keep a watchful eye out of us as we will always need your help.

Brennen Dicker

October 17, 2008

Ali was a wonderful and honorable man who was always there to help, and certainly had a very positive influence on my life. He will be missed by me and my family.

Tara O'Neil (Freeland)

October 17, 2008

I only met Ali a few times, but my Dad, Greg, always considered him one of his best friends. I remember Ali's kindness when my Dad passed away- and I can't think of a better legacy for someone to leave, than to be remembered as a great friend to many, and a kind member of his community.

I am so sorry for your loss. I wish you well, and hope you find comfort in this difficult time. It is a great testament to his memory to look through this book and see just how many lives he touched.

Mary C Simpson

October 16, 2008

Ali had a passion and zest for life. I count myself lucky to have been able to call him friend since 1979.

Iraj Zanganeh

October 16, 2008

Recently Shahnaz and I lost our best friend/brother.
We have known Ali since 1980. We became like a family who shared a lots of happiness during the last 28 years. Ali was a caring individual, who always reached out to help others.
Ali is in a better place now. He will be missed by a lots of people.
We love you
Zanganeh’s Family

brad wheaton

October 16, 2008

Ali,
Thanks for all you have done. You always treated everyone around you like family and with respect. You have been a great leader and a mentor to so many of us. You taught us all valuable lessons at work and showed us how to treat people right.

With love
Brad Wheaton and Family

Jennifer MacDougall

October 16, 2008

Jennifer, Anthony and Teresa, I am so sorry for your loss. I knew Ali through my dad Barry MacDougall who taught Ali how to fly. I've known him for many years and am truly blessed to say so. He was one of the most amazing people I have ever met and i am very saddened for his loss. If I can help in any way please let me know. My thoughts and prayers go out to you and all who knew him. I'm so sorry

Hoda Zanganeh

October 16, 2008

Ali was like a 2nd father to myself and my 3 sisters Neda, Neila and Nassim and he was also like a brother to my dad and mom Iraj and Shahnaz Zanganeh. This is a huge loss to us and to the world and it is because he made such a big impact on everyones lives. He gave me the oppurtunity to travel the world with Jenny, to fly an airplane and to drive the nicest cars in high school like my jaguar and mustang!! :-) He was a great man and we will always remember him as a legend here on earth. Ali, we love you and we know you are still with us every second of every day. Now it's finally time to rest and enjoy your life from up above. See you in the after life Ali I love you!

Drema DePriest

October 16, 2008

I thought this poem fits Ali and his love of flying. Our prayers are with his beloved children. GOD BLESS.

Ahmad Massomi and Drema DePriest



Spread your wings and fly butterfly!
Your beauty has touched us all.
Your wings so very delicate,
But your spirit conquers all.

You’ve given us so much on earth
But God now reclaims his prize.
Spread your wings and fly butterfly!
Let your colors brighten the sky.

We will miss you dearly, but your
Transition is complete.
Your wings are now an angel’s
To your Savior go to meet.

Spread your wings and FLY, butterfly!

Courtney Gaines

October 16, 2008

It started with a man named John......he said do you know anyone who is looking for a truck. That's how I first met Ali. Ali was so kind and very generous, he would always have smile on his face. Everytime I would come up to Import Auto he would always have a free car wash to give me. He will forever be missed and remembered always.

Keith & Jamie Barilli

October 16, 2008

In loving memory to a wonderful kind person. We know what you are all going through. Our thoughts are with all of you through this difficult time. Know that Ali is in a better place.

Laurie Sherman

October 16, 2008

Jenny my heart goes out to you and your family in your time of loss.My thoughts and prayers are with you as you go thru this time of sorrow.God Bless You.

Dana & Beth Hass

October 16, 2008

I met Ali several years ago thru my friend Bill Bannister who reffered me to his shop to have my car repaired.He was such an honest man and several times did work with no charge for both my wife and I.And this is a testament of his kind heart and giving soul.My thoughts and prayers are with your family.

Richard Kennedy

October 16, 2008

I have known Ali for almost 20 years, as a customer of his auto repair business. I did not see him often, as his work was so excellent. When I did visit him, I always had great respect for him. The comments in this guest book fit him exactly: honest, honorable, kind and friendly. I would add, distinguished and classy.

Bill Bannister

October 16, 2008

I met Ali back in 1984 when he was working out of the Standard station on Fillmore and Cascade (now it is a flower store). I asked him if he could look over a car I purchased, and he told me "I will check it out - license plate to license plate. If it needs fixing I will, if not I will leave it alone." For the next 20 years Ali was my mechanic, my mother's mechanic, and a friend I will never forget. He was a compassionate soul and a truly admirable man. My heartfelt sympathy goes out to his family.

Stephanie Wegner

October 16, 2008

Met Ali at the COS Airshow about 4 years ago thru a show pilot friend of mine. Ali then became my friend as he very generously helped me in a desperate situation and sold me the vehicle that I still own and love! I will always be grateful to him for his unending kindness and have much respect for his genuine sense of integrity and desire to treat everyone he met with such enormous grace, courtesy and consideration.
I've told him before and I'll say it again.....You are a GOOD man, Ali Jafari!
Sending thoughts of courage and strength for all of you.

Amy Cavender

October 16, 2008

We have lost a very special person to so many. I met Ali in 1986 and have so many special memories of him. Anthony and Jennifer, you were truly the light of his life. He talked about you every time I saw him. My thoughts and prayers go out to you and the rest of Ali's family and friends. RIP my friend.

Ralph Bray

October 16, 2008

Anthony, I am currently in
Virginia where I checked the Gazette Obits. How grieved I am to learn of Ali' death. He was a dear friend, an exceptional person, a devoted parent, and a credit to our community. Please know that I am thnking of you and your sister.

Ralph Bray

Tim Mehdi Ghaemi

October 16, 2008

A community is just like a family but bigger, where there is a father, mother, children, relatives, and friends. Our community in Colorado Springs lost a very special person who was a father figure to so many, a caring and loving brother to the rest of us.
I am sadden and my heart is broken forever and I cannot stop crying but I know Ali is in much better place. Ali, I love you and I will miss you forever. Anthony and Jeni, I am proud of you for holding strong just as your father would want you too. Your father is known for his generosity and unconditional love and care for anyone who got to know him.

Carrie Asgari

October 16, 2008

Anthony, your dad has been my friend since his college days in Pueblo. How my heart goes out to you and your family in this terrible time. He always had time for his friends and helped alot people he didn't even know, You and your sister were the apple of his eye. Everything he did he did for you. He always gave the best advice and never forgot where he came from and how he got where he got.
Ali will be missed beyond words. By many many people.

Danielle Currie (Betz)

October 15, 2008

I met Ali trough my father Danny, when my dad sent me to his shop to get work done on my car. I can say that Ali was the most kind, trusting, honest, nicest person I have ever met. I am sorry for your loss. My blessings are with his family and friends.

Joan Singleton

October 15, 2008

I am so sorry to hear of your loss. I am Joan one of Cara's Friends from South Carolina. If You or Anthony need anything I am here for yall.
God bless you and RIP ALi.

Scott Wilson

October 15, 2008

I meet Ali in Colorado Springs 10 years ago through the car business. As with all that Ali was introduced to, I was his friend from the start. When consulting him about any issue concerning an automobile, he treated you like family. With honesty, respect and a true caring of you. He was always there to help.

As you all know, Ali had a tremendous passion for flying. I being a pilot flew many times with Ali of which he let me do much of the flying. We talked many hours about flying and aircraft we both have flown. Ali took time for me in his busy schedule because he knew of my love of flying. Ali never thought of himself, it was always of everyone else.

Ali was one of the most kind, friendly, honest people I have ever known. He has made me a better person to have been his friend.

He will truly, truly be missed. My heart and prayers go out to the family.

Everytime I think of Ali, yes there will be sadness he is gone, but I will smile to have know him.

Ali, I know that where you are, it is a better place.

God bless you Ali.

Mike and Karen Rulo

October 15, 2008

Jenny and Anthony,
We want to express our deepest regret to you and your family for the loss of your father, a man whose heart was as big as the world itself. We will miss the physical presence of his quiet strength but we rejoice in knowing that his kind, strong spirit lives on...
God is with you.

KaTarra Taylor-Yell

October 15, 2008

So sorry to hear of this great loss. My thoughts are with you Jenny and Anthony.

Laura Woodrum and Family

October 15, 2008

Jenny, I am so sorry for you loss. Words will never be enough. I don't know you that well, but my sympathys are with you and your family at this time. He is in a much better place, with no more suffering. Times will get harder, I know this. But From what Cara has said, I know you are strong, and you will cherish all those memories in your heart with him. He will ALWAYS be with you!

Mark Huff

October 15, 2008

I met Ali at his shop on N. Nevada in 1984 when he helped me keep a 1974 BMW 2002 running. Between his and my efforts, that car ran a lot longer with a lot more miles than it should have.
Ali was one of the most honest, caring and trustworthy businessmen I've ever known. He will be missed.
My sincere condolences to his family.

Garry and Kathy Simpson

October 15, 2008

To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.

Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, ""I welcome you.""

It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man.

God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.

When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.

I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.

There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.

If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......""My day was not in vain.""
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.

So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.

And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.

Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998-2008

Cara Taylor

October 15, 2008

Jenny you are my best friend... and I adore you too Anthony. I am very sorry for your loss. I know your father was a wonderful man who adored you both. You know if you need anything, I'm here! Love you both, God Bless & RIP Ali

April

October 15, 2008

Jennifer you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.

Neil Katz

October 15, 2008

Ali, we started out not being friends 20 years ago. But one of the best stories of my life is how we finally did become good friends the past few years. It was because of you and your ability to forget and forgive the silly little mistakes we all make.

I will miss you. I have lost a good friend.

Karen Paradeis

October 15, 2008

Ali was a one man show in his generosity and love for everyone he came in contact with. His smile and laughter will be sadly missed. My heart goes out to his family. You are all in my prayers.

Kendra Paradeis

October 15, 2008

You will always be my second father. I will never forget you and everything you have ever done for me and my family. I love you and miss you....Rest in peace...

Love always,

Kendra Paradeis

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