With deep sorrow and complete submission to the will of Almighty Allah (SWT), the Bangladesh mariners’ community mourns the passing of Fakir Ziauddin Ahmed (5E/223), a respected mariner and alumnus of the 5th Batch of the Bangladesh Marine Academy. He passed away peacefully on 1 February 2026 at 6:15 pm, at his residence in New Jersey, United States of America.
“Inna Lillahi Wa Inna Ilaihi Raji’un”
(Surely, we belong to Allah, and to Him we shall return.)
Fakir Ziauddin Ahmed had been suffering from Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), a progressive and incurable neurological illness. Despite prolonged physical hardship, he faced his condition with remarkable patience, dignity, and unwavering faith. Although his illness severely weakened his body and impaired his ability to speak and swallow, his mental clarity remained intact until the end. Following medical assessment and family consultation, he was placed under hospice care, where the focus shifted to comfort, peace, and dignity in his final days. He returned to his Creator calmly and peacefully at home.
I visited Fakir Bhai on January 29 at the hospital. He was enduring severe physical hardship. He could no longer consume even liquid food, as his weakened muscles could not support swallowing. He was unable to speak due to the loss of strength in his throat muscles. Yet, by the mercy of Allah, his mind remained clear and alert. He was fully aware of his surroundings and of all decisions being made. – Ghulam Suhrawardi (6N).
Just a note from memory… in 1983, while in Bangladesh-USA-Bangladesh voyage, MV Banglar Mamata was at the Port of Baltimore, Maryland, USA; I was 4th Engineer. A group of 4/5 Respected ex-Cadets of 5th/6th Batch (US Resident then) visited our ship. Possibly Fakir Ziauddin Ahmed Sir was in that group too. – Sajid Hussain (15E).
He is remembered by his contemporaries and juniors as a gentle, resilient, and principled individual.
The Janaza was scheduled to be held on 2 February 2026 after Isha prayer at the Islamic Society of Central Jersey, Monmouth Junction, New Jersey, USA.
May Allah (SWT) forgive Fakir Ziauddin Ahmed’s shortcomings, accept his suffering as a means of purification, illuminate his grave, and grant him the highest station in Jannatul Firdaus.
May Allah grant patience and strength to his family, relatives, friends, and all those who mourn his passing. Ameen.
Acknowledgement:
This obituary has been prepared using information and reflections provided by Respected Ghulam Suhrawardi (6N) and Sajid Hussain (15E).
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