Des Plaines, Ill. — The community is mourning the loss of Ashraf Ali, a respected leader, entrepreneur and longtime advocate, who passed away Sunday morning, Jan. 25, 2026. He leaves behind a legacy of service, innovation and dedication that shaped institutions and touched countless lives across the Chicago area.
Ali served as President of the Development Corporation of America, based in Des Plaines. The company operates primarily in the real estate sector, specializing in subdivision and development projects. An engineer by training, Ali was also part of the team at the internationally renowned architectural firm Skidmore that helped construct the iconic Sears Tower — now known as Willis Tower. Over the course of his career, he contributed his expertise to numerous architectural projects throughout Chicago.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Ali devoted more than three decades to serving the Asian community through nonprofit work. He was the longest-serving member of the Board of Directors at AHS Family Health Center and made history as the organization’s first Board Chairperson when it became a Federally Qualified Health Center in the early 2000s. He also served as Board Treasurer.
Ali’s background in construction and development proved instrumental in the health center’s growth. His leadership helped guide the expansion of AHS Family Health Center to four locations, and he played a key role in completing its headquarters at 6301 N. Western Ave.
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News of his passing has prompted an outpouring of condolences from colleagues and community members.
“Mr. Ashraf Ali, a long-term Board Director and the first AHS Family Health Center Board Chair, influenced every strategic decision and growth of our organization for more than two decades with his unmatched enthusiasm,” said Dr. Muhammad Paracha, CEO of AHS Family Health Center. “He served the Asian community well and will be remembered for all the impactful work he has done for the Asian and Bangladeshi communities.”
James Luciano, current Board Chair of AHS Family Health Center, said, “Mr. Ali’s contributions were very impactful and too many to count. He has truly made each one of us better, and now it’s our responsibility to carry on with that passion and integrity.”
Dr. Larry Williams, Board Vice Chair, described Ali as “a great person and mentor” who “will be missed.”
Board Treasurer Mahmood Khan added, “Mr. Ali was an integral part of our community, and his presence will be deeply missed. He treated everyone with respect. My thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time.”
Dr. Ayesha Hussain, Chief Medical Officer, noted that Ali was involved with AHS Family Health Center from its inception. “His dedication and unwavering commitment to serving underserved communities was exceptional. His passing represents a significant loss to our organization and to the communities we serve.”
Dr. Lisa Beaudette-Nguyen, Chief Dental Officer, called him “a strong supporter of our clinic,” adding that the organization “will always be grateful for his impact on our health center and community.”
Paul Nagpal, Chief Financial Officer, described Ali as “an inspirational leader” whose legacy should be celebrated.
Members of the AHS Family Health Center Board and staff expressed their sorrow, including board members Fe Cabrera, Mariam Hassan, Elsadig Elmehdi, Marivic Guitirrez, Anabelle Cortes and Dr. Rohitkumar Vasa, along with staff members Khalid Sabzwari, Emina Celik, Mosharraf Khandaker, Ranjana Khan and former board member Abha Pandya.
Ali is survived by his wife, son, daughter and grandchildren. Family members said they will cherish his memory and continue to celebrate the legacy of a man whose vision and service strengthened both his profession and his community.