Obituary of Houshang Ghashghai

It is with a heavy heart, we announce the passing of Houshang Ghashghai. A loving husband, humble friend, brother, and leader who was instrumental in paving the road for a better future for many he knew. He was born in Maymand (Firuzabad County, Fars Province, Iran) in July 1943. Maymand is famous for its roses and rose water. Houshang was born near rosebushes at the blooming season in a Ghashghai tent. How Distinctive! After attending primary and secondary school in Fars, he headed to the States in pursuit of his higher education. Arriving in San Diego in 1964, he earned his Bachelor and Master's Degrees in political science from San Diego State University. It was there he met his wife Karen, his inseparable and lifelong partner. The deep love and respect they had for each other was strengthened and grounded in their shared commitments to humanity and justice for mankind. After receiving his PhD in Urban Planning from USIU he went on to teach political science at the International University-Europe near London. After returning to San Diego, his favorite city, he continued his teaching career at San Diego State University. Houshang was a man for all seasons and was well known for his humor and wit. He entertained everyone with his wonderful story telling, as well as his knowledge of world politics. A passionate activist with a gentle character who always found the opportunity to speak of social justice, and always stood tall as a proud Ghashghai. He was immensely proud of his Ghashghai tribe and spoke with great respect and love about their culture and history. He continued to march for justice and against intolerance at every opportunity and actively participated in many different causes where his lean and tall figure could be seen in the midst of all. He lost his valiant fight against cancer in the late evening of December 9, 2014. His compassion, warmth, humor and love for people and justice will be profoundly missed. Following his burial in Pacific Grove, California - his memorial will be held at: Date: Jan. 10, 2015 Time: 11:30 Location: All Hallows Parish Hall, La Jolla, California In lieu of flowers, as an expression of sympathy, you may send a memorial contribution in his name to support the school at the Persian Cultural Center www.pccsd.org (858.552.9355). A permanent plaque will be placed on the school in his honor.