Ali Kaan

With unspeakable sorrow, we, the loved ones of Ali Kaan, wish for all of you who cared about him and shared his life to know that Ali has passed over. Those of you reading this will know that Ali was born in Turkey and that he lived in Nashville for more than forty years. You may not know that he once lived in Washington, DC and in London. While in London he first worked as a dishwasher sixteen hours a day for ten cents an hour to pay for living essentials, English lessons, and admission to London nightclubs. As he was a most private individual, you also may not know some other sweet, interesting things about him and his life. He was above all proud and thankful to be an American, living in America with American friends and loved ones. He decided he was going to accomplish this at the age of twelve when American movies became available in his hometown of Ergani. After bursting out of the door of the boarding school he attended during the week, on Friday afternoons he would sprint from town to his family’s farm, do his chores, and sprint back to spend the rest of his evening watching American films over and over and drinking Coca-Cola. At fifteen, he purchased an Atlas and a Turkish-English dictionary with the money he made from his first paying job. Joining the Turkish military was the only way to obtain a passport at that time. He joined, had rigorous basic training for a few months, and served another two years as a schoolteacher. He had an affinity for convertibles, expensive shoes, and blondes. The blonde love of his life was his Silky Terrier named Charlie. At Ali’s request, he will be buried with Charlie’s ashes. The world became a better place on March 10, 1948 and will feel the great void created on July 24, 2020. For many reasons, Ali wished for his interment be private with no service. Those of you wishing to visit his grave are welcomed to do so beginning July 31st at Harpeth Hills Memory Gardens, 9090 TN – 100, Nashville/615-646-9292. The office will provide instructions. Should you wish to send flowers they may be sent to Dickson Funeral Home where they will be placed at the gravesite. Should you wish to make a memorial donation please contact Gilda's Club of Middle Tennessee/(615)329-1124