In Memoriam: Darabi, Ali
(195?-2025)
Ali Darabi, Ph.D., a member of the American Society for Microbiology (ASM), died peacefully on Sept. 27, 2025, at the age of 71, surrounded by his loving family.
Born in Iran, Darabi immigrated to the United States with determination and hope, building a life defined by hard work, resilience and generosity. Through unwavering dedication, he established a distinguished career in the sciences, working at Cottage Hospital in Santa Barbara and Allegheny General Hospital, and ultimately serving as director of microbiology and molecular diagnostics there for more than 15 years. In this role, his expertise and leadership advanced the field of medicine and touched countless lives. He was admired not only for his professional accomplishments but also for the integrity, wisdom and kindness with which he led.
Beyond his professional life, Darabi embraced the world with a spirit of curiosity and joy. He was an avid fisherman, a phenomenal skier and a lifelong lover of nature. His passion for adventure was matched by a quiet generosity; he gave selflessly to others, always ready to help with compassion and humility.
Above all, Darabi will be remembered as a devoted husband and father, roles he considered his life’s greatest purpose. He is survived by his beloved wife, Dr. Sonia Darabi, and his cherished daughter, Setareh Darabi, who will forever carry forward his love and example.
Darabi's warmth, generosity and strength of character leave an indelible mark on all who knew him. Though he is no longer with us, his legacy will live on the lives he touched, the family he nurtured and the countless memories of love and laughter he created.
Obituary written and submitted by:
Setareh Darabi, M.S.
Born in Iran, Darabi immigrated to the United States with determination and hope, building a life defined by hard work, resilience and generosity. Through unwavering dedication, he established a distinguished career in the sciences, working at Cottage Hospital in Santa Barbara and Allegheny General Hospital, and ultimately serving as director of microbiology and molecular diagnostics there for more than 15 years. In this role, his expertise and leadership advanced the field of medicine and touched countless lives. He was admired not only for his professional accomplishments but also for the integrity, wisdom and kindness with which he led.
Beyond his professional life, Darabi embraced the world with a spirit of curiosity and joy. He was an avid fisherman, a phenomenal skier and a lifelong lover of nature. His passion for adventure was matched by a quiet generosity; he gave selflessly to others, always ready to help with compassion and humility.
Above all, Darabi will be remembered as a devoted husband and father, roles he considered his life’s greatest purpose. He is survived by his beloved wife, Dr. Sonia Darabi, and his cherished daughter, Setareh Darabi, who will forever carry forward his love and example.
Darabi's warmth, generosity and strength of character leave an indelible mark on all who knew him. Though he is no longer with us, his legacy will live on the lives he touched, the family he nurtured and the countless memories of love and laughter he created.
Obituary written and submitted by:
Setareh Darabi, M.S.