Obelit Yadgar (Obie) passed away peacefully on August 30, 2023, with his daughters, Sonja and Sadie by his side. He took with him the love of his family and all who knew and adored him throughout his 82 years of life.

Born in Baghdad, Iraq, and raised in Tehran, Iran, Obie was a proud Assyrian. Always dreaming of a better life, his mother placed their family on an immigration quota in 1946. Sadly she passed away beforehand, but Obie and his brother, Ramon, immigrated to the United States in 1957 with just 10 cents left in their pockets. They lived with their aunt and uncle in Chicago, where Obie learned English and finished high school. 

Always a dreamer, he set off to San Francisco after graduation, where he met the love of his life, Judy Coyne, on a blind date. He fell madly in love with her, describing how perfectly she fit in his arms when they danced the first time. They married October 29, 1964. 

Obie was then drafted into the 4th Infantry Division of the United States Army, where he served his country during the Vietnam War. The War and his many life experiences, along with his humble childhood, fueled his imagination and served as a backdrop for many of his short stories and published novels later in life. 

Obie and Judy then criss-crossed the country chasing their dreams and following his new art of broadcast radio. They eventually settled in Milwaukee, where he became a legend on the classical airwaves, most notably on WFMR, and then retiring from WNIB in Chicago. His one-of-a-kind voice, impeccable command of the English language, casual on-air demeanor, and  incredible knowledge of classical music returned to radio after nearly 20 years, when he launched “Obie’s Opus,” on WMSE, 91.7 FM,  in 2022. 

Obie had a passion for a good cup of tea, a great steak; a glass of wine, Peroni beer or even a cognac from time to time. He enjoyed good company, a great conversation; had a love of fountain pens and shaving. One of his greatest joys in life was teaching his grandson, Max, how to shave. More than anything, though, Obie loved his family. He spent 60 years with his adoring wife, Judy, who passed away in 2022. Deeply saddened by her loss, he felt she took half his heart with her when she passed. He was the loving father of their two daughters, Sonja Schoonenberg (Wes) and Sadie Hatzenbuhler (Jack), and the “the world’s greatest Poppie,” according to his grandsons, Max, Henry and Will. 

He was a legend, and truly one of a kind. There are no words that describe how much he will be missed, but his family and friends find comfort knowing that he has been reunited with his true love once again. His legacy will live on through his girls and grandsons. 

Obie is further survived by his brother Ramon, along with many other close family and friends, as well as a furry grand four-paws named Ruby

Obie’s family will celebrate his life with an intimate gathering of family and friends in the months to come. Details will be shared once finalized. 

Until we meet again, 

Your loving daughters