Remembering Mehmet Sari
ICMC remembers and pays tribute to Mehmet Sari, former Head of Office in Lebanon, who passed away suddenly on 25 May 2026
On behalf of ICMC, Secretary General Mr. Davide Bernocchi
‘This is a deeply sad day for the ICMC family, as we learned of the sudden and unexpected passing of Mehmet Sari, who served for many years as Head of Office in Lebanon. I had the privilege of working with Mehmet for just over a year, from mid-2024 to mid-2025.
Regrettably, this period coincided with the closeout of ICMC’s programs in Lebanon due to funding cuts. During this challenging time, I was deeply impressed by Mehmet’s professionalism and by the unwavering dedication he showed to ICMC’s mission throughout nearly 20 years of service. He was a man of great integrity, always placing the dignity and interests of the refugees he served above all else.
Mehmet embodied the principles of ICMC in a profoundly authentic way. He led a multicultural and multireligious team with humility, respect, and professionalism, earning the deep trust and admiration of his colleagues, partners, donors, and the communities he served.
As Mehmet’s soul returns to God, we entrust him to His infinite mercy and give thanks for the blessing of having known him. We pray that his family may find strength and inner consolation in this time of grief. Mehmet’s example will continue to live on in our hearts and in our work’.
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Memories & Reflections of ICMC Colleagues, Past & Present
‘It is with deep sadness that I receive news of the death of Mehmet Sari.
Mehmet began his service to ICMC as a caseworker in the Istanbul office before working with ICMC’s office for the US Refugee Assistance Program, and then serving as ICMC Head of Office in Lebanon. On assuming this position, Mehmet served with great competence and a deep respect, both for the refugees who were served by ICMC and the staff under his direction.
In my service as Secretary General, I deeply appreciated his dedication and commitment to the mandate and mission of ICMC. My prayers go with him, his family, and the staff who served under him; may God grant Mehmet rest and peace, and comfort those who deeply grieve his loss.’
Monsignor Robert J. Vitillo, former ICMC Secretary General, & member of the Boards of ICMC Europe and ICMC, Inc.
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‘It was such a privilege and joy to work for more than four years with Mehmet Sari.
Mehmet was, above all, an incredibly dedicated, caring and highly reliable manager and colleague. In spite of a very difficult context and security environment, the office in Lebanon was no headache for us at Headquarters – quite the contrary! We did not have to spend so much time overseeing it, in spite of the importance of the operation, because Mehmet and his team were just remarkable professionals.
It is interesting to mention that, after each U.S. government selection mission and without exception, we used to receive very personal notes of thanks, highlighting how much support the U.S. delegation had received from Mehmet and the team. In spite of all the difficulties of operating in Lebanon, with so many security incidents and attacks, everything ran smoothly.
I am certain that Mehmet was a great professional because he was also a profoundly decent man, never putting himself first and always supporting others. He was a family person, and I will always remember the discussions we had about his son and my daughter, both young medical doctors, and how they coped with hospital life. During those conversations, I could see what a loving person Mehmet was.
It was so profoundly unfair to him and the colleagues in Turkey and Lebanon that our operation came to such an abrupt and absurd end. But Mehmet and his colleagues closed things with the utmost professionalism and dignity.
Thank you Mehmet for your very significant contribution to making our world a much better one. In prayer and thoughts with you and your family.‘
Stéphane Jaquemet, ICMC Policy Advisor & Director, ICMC Europe
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I met Mehmet in June 2012 during my interview for ICMC, and from that day on he stood beside me throughout my entire career journey. He guided me, advised me, shared his leadership skills, and taught me lessons that went far beyond work. He shaped not only the professional I became, but also the person I am today.
Mehmet was not only a leader. He was a father, a brother, a teacher, a mentor, and a wise man with whom you could speak about anything in life. He always had the right words, the right advice, and the ability to make people feel supported and valued.
When I heard the heartbreaking news of Mehmet’s passing, I could not believe it. None of the staff or friends I shared the news with could believe it either. I have never seen someone so deeply loved, respected, and appreciated by so many people across the world.
Mehmet, you will forever remain in our memories, our stories, and our hearts. We will all miss you deeply. Thank you for everything you did for me, for all of us, and for the humanitarian field.’
Samer Abi Abdullah, ICMC colleague
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‘It is with deep sadness that we learn of the passing of Mehmet Sari.
Those who knew Mehmet know, above all else, that he was a devoted family man. Together with his wife, he raised three wonderful children with immense love, kindness, strong values, and care. He was incredibly proud of his family and spoke of them with great love.
Mehmet was also a deeply respected colleague and friend, whose kindness, compassion, humility, and professionalism touched countless lives over many years of service. Whether working with refugees, partners, or colleagues, in Beirut, Istanbul, or elsewhere, he treated everyone with warmth, dignity, and respect. His integrity, dedication, and humanity left a lasting impression on all who had the privilege of knowing and working with him.
During this incredibly difficult time, our heartfelt condolences go out to Mehmet’s wife, children, family, friends, and colleagues. He will be greatly missed by the many whose lives he touched. May he rest in eternal peace.’
Linda Samardzic, former Director, ICMC Resettlement Support Center
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‘Mehmet was an incredibly kind and caring person, qualities he portrayed daily in his commitment to his ICMC colleagues, and to the beneficiaries that we worked to assist. He was respected and admired by his colleagues, and was a dedicated family man.
I will always remember Mehmet for how he expertly led the Lebanon office during the most challenging of circumstances, and for how he gracefully managed its closure in 2025. Rest in peace.’
Bryan Kolb, former ICMC colleague
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‘I worked with Mehmet for four years, and I will always remember him as an exceptionally gracious, thoughtful, and quietly kind person. There was something very steady and gentle in the way he treated people that stayed with you.
His passing feels unbearably early, and I am deeply saddened by this loss. I will remember him with great warmth and respect.‘
Çiğdem Erdoğan, former ICMC colleague
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‘Mehmet was far more than a boss to me. He stood by my side during some of the toughest moments of my life, always offering support, guidance, and kindness when I needed it most.
He was like a father, a mentor, and a brother to, and his wisdom, patience, and belief in people left a lasting impact on my life. I will always be grateful for everything he did for me, and I will never forget the respect, humanity, and strength he carried every day. His memory will always stay with me, and he will be deeply missed. May he rest in peace.’
Jad Otaki, former ICMC colleague
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‘Dear Mehmet, I never imagined I would be writing to you after your passing. My heart is truly broken. Not everyone we meet leaves a lasting impact on our lives, but you did. Even though I was in another unit, you always checked up on me and cared for me like a father would.
Your kindness, advice, and genuine love meant more than words can express. Your memory will always stay with us, and so will the lessons and warmth you gave us every day. Rest in peace, Mehmet. You will never be forgotten.’
Jessica Hellani, former ICMC colleague
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‘I had the pleasure of knowing Mehmet Sari for the past three years, first as a colleague and then as a friend. He exemplified what a good mentor and leader is, and was always optimistic even during the most difficult of times. He inspired so many during his tenure at ICMC. and that legacy will live on. Rest in peace my friend.’
Adeline Ong, former ICMC colleague
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‘Today we lost more than a manager – we lost a mentor, friend, and a beautiful human being. Thank you for every kind word, every piece of advice, and every moment of support. You will always be remembered with love and respect. Rest in peace.’
Zahira, former ICMC colleague
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‘It is with deep sadness that I’m saying goodbye to my first and only manager of nearly 14 years at the ICMC office in Beirut. I still cannot believe how early you left us, Mehmet. Your sudden passing has left a silence that words cannot truly describe.Today, I remember you as not only an exceptional manager, but as a great man who deeply shaped my entire professional journey. You were a constant source of guidance, support, wisdom, and trust throughout every step.
Thank you for believing in every colleague at ICMC, for teaching with patience and respect, and for leaving a lasting impact not only on our work, but on who we became as people. We made such a great team, and it was all because you were an outstanding true leader, Mehmet. You always reminded me that you wished you had two Vanessas working with you. Now, remembering that will always make me cry.
What breaks my heart even more is that just a week ago, you were checking on us and you told me that I deserve to find one hundred jobs. You were truly a friend, a brother and a father to all of us, Mehmet. My sincere condolences to Mehmet’s wife and three children. He was a true family man, wise and caring. He will always be remembered with great respect, gratitude, and sadness. May your beautiful soul rest in peace dearest Mehmet.’
Vanessa Vania, former ICMC colleague
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‘My interaction with Mehmet centered on the devastating dismantling of the Resettlement Support Center, an occasion that was certainly a leadership challenge. I will always remember Mehmet’s careful concern for responsible closure and for ICMC staff in Lebanon and his patience in making sure I understood the most complicated dimensions of this work. During a visit to Lebanon, I had a chance to see his leadership and concern for justice in action.
My condolences to his family and the staff who worked with him. Be comforted in his memory.‘
Drew Rogers, ICMC Director of Global Operations
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‘It is with a heavy heart that I say goodbye to a dear friend and former colleague of over 25 years, Mehmet Sari. Mehmet was the perfect example of a hardworking, humble, and deeply respectful soul. He was a dedicated professional, but also, he was family. I will always cherish the way he affectionately called me ‘abla’. We shared so many wonderful conversations over the years, most of all about our children, whom he loved fiercely—he truly was the greatest father.
My husband and I were fortunate to spend time with him in January of this year. We parted ways planning our next reunion in Istanbul, promising that next time, his beloved wife would join us all together. While we didn’t get to have that final meeting, I am grateful for the 25 years of friendship we did share.
Rest in peace, dear Mehmet. You will be deeply missed, but never forgotten. Hosçakal, kardeşim.’
Meliha Hasanbegović-Gušo, former ICMC colleague
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‘It is with deep sorrow that I received the news of Mehmet’s sudden passing. I worked with him for two years, and like so many colleagues at ICMC whose lives he touched, we remained in contact after. He will be deeply missed for his kind, humble and gracious nature. Mehmet loved his family dearly, treated his colleagues with utmost respect, and was respected just as much for the remarkable person he was. That he returned to his Creator on the blessed day of Arafah speaks volumes about the special person he was.
May he rest in eternal peace, and may God give his family strength and patience as they grieve his loss.’
Amera Magre, former ICMC colleague
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‘I had the privilege of working with Mehmet during the emergency in Lebanon in 2024. From the very beginning, it was clear that he genuinely cared about those that were affected and wanted to make sure we provided the type of help that was best for them. He earned the respect of everyone around him, and he will be deeply missed. May he rest in peace.‘
Janice John, ICMC Director of Programs
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‘I was heartbroken to hear of dear Mehmet’s passing at such a young age. Over the 12 years we worked together, I had the privilege of knowing him not only as a dependable and sincere colleague, but also as a truly kind and compassionate person. His warmth and humanity touched everyone around him, and I will always remember him as a valued friend. My deepest condolences go out to his family and loved ones during this difficult time.‘
Nejat Demirtaş, former ICMC colleague
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‘I still cannot believe the news of Mehmet Sari’s passing. For more than ten years, he was much more than a boss to me. He was a mentor, a guide, and someone I deeply respected both professionally and personally. He was an exceptional leader with a big heart and a deep commitment to humanitarian work. His professionalism, wisdom, and dedication left a lasting impact on so many people around him. I learned a great deal from him over the years, and I will always be grateful for his guidance, patience, and belief in people.
He was truly one of the rare people you meet in life and never forget. His memory and the values he carried will always stay with me. Rest in peace, dear Mehmet. You will be deeply missed.’
Rihab Daajeh, former ICMC colleague
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‘Here I sit, to reflect on a person I had the privilege of working with in my capacity as physician processing refugees being resettled to the U.S. Mehmet was a diligent, knowledgeable, and impeccable manager of a very busy operation in Lebanon. He was always available to assist, and courteous in his relationships with refugees and staff alike. Most of all, he had an infectious enthusiasm and was a committed custodian of ICMC’s core values.
While life teaches us that death is inevitable, Mehmet’s memory will live on in the legacy he left as a team leader, family man, and friend. May his soul rest in eternal peace.‘
Sami E. Moukheiber, MD, former ICMC colleague
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‘It is with a grieving heart that we say goodbye to our dearest Mehmet Sari.
You were my very first manager when I joined ICMC back in 2014. You were a school of everyday life lessons, especially during our lunch breaks. I will always remember the examples, wisdom, and advice you shared with me. You also shaped my career path and helped me become the person I am today. You made me fall in love with humanitarian work and taught me to see the world around us through a more compassionate lens. For that, I will always be grateful.
You were more than a manager – you were like a father, and you were a true supporter of my decisions. When I left ICMC, you told me I would always be welcome to return whenever I was ready. I will never forget your kind email months later, telling me that I was missed at the office.
Mehmet, you were one of the kindest and most loving people I have ever met, and I am truly grateful that our paths crossed. You will always leave a mark on my heart. Fly high. May your soul rest in peace.‘
Jana Gholam, former ICMC colleague
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‘I was deeply saddened to hear of Mehmet Sari’s passing.
I knew him since 2012, and was always impressed with his qualities throughout the ten years we worked together. He was one of those rare individuals who was quietly capable, inventive, and determined to solve any problem to help refugees and displaced people. He carried his knowledge and skills quietly and lightly, somehow managing to be sincere yet respectful.
My heart goes out to his family and close friends, who will be missing him terribly. I will mourn his passing too, because people like Mehmet made this world a better and safer place.‘
Enise Aymer, former ICMC colleague
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Memories & Reflections from ICMC Partners
We’re heartbroken by the loss of a truly special colleague. In Lebanon, through all the challenges the country has faced, Mehmet never wavered, and always went the extra mile for vulnerable refugees with kindness, dedication, and a big heart. He cared deeply for the people we serve and for all of us around him.
Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones – we’re so sorry for your loss. He touched so many lives, and his impact will live on in the hearts of those he helped and worked with.‘
Reem Andary, UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR), Beirut
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‘It is with a heavy heart that I write this tribute to my former colleague, Mehmet Sari.
I had the privilege of working with Mehmet for several years in my role as a Department of Homeland Security Desk Officer. During this time, I came to deeply appreciate his kindness, professionalism, and unwavering dedication to our mission, especially his commitment to helping refugees.
Mehmet had a remarkable ability to handle even the most difficult situations with grace and composure. He was a true advocate, not only for the refugees we served but also for his staff, always acting with the utmost care. His compassion and integrity set a standard for all of us, and I truly admired the way he approached his work and the people around him.
It breaks my heart to know that Mehmet is no longer with us. My sincerest condolences and warmest regards go out to his family and friends during this difficult time. May his memory be a source of comfort and inspiration to us all.’
Elena Likhanova, former DHS Desk Officer
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‘I worked with Mehmet from 2024 to 2025, while serving as the Program Officer for the Resettlement Support Center in Turkey and the Middle East, as part of the U.S. government’s Office of Refugee Admissions.
During that time, I witnessed first hand the dedication, kindness, and perseverance that Mehmet and his team brought to assisting refugees under incredibly challenging circumstances. Through Mehmet’s leadership, countless beneficiaries were able to depart for the U.S. and begin new chapters in their lives. He also led the Lebanon office with professionalism and grace through its unfortunate closure in 2025.
My heartfelt condolences go out to Mehmet’s family and to the colleagues who had the privilege of working closely with him. May he rest in peace.’
Natalia Rincon, Foreign Service Officer, U.S. Department of State
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‘I am so sorry to learn of Mehmet’s passing. I am sending my love and deepest sympathy to his family.
One of the things that made Mehmet such a great joy to work with was his love of his family. Mehmet always spoke so proudly about his family. He was so proud of his children and their great accomplishments, and he always lit up whenever he had a chance to tell you about them.
I miss Mehmet dearly. May we all honor him by aspiring to be as generous, kind, and warm as him.‘
Patrick Knapp, U.S. Refugee Coordinator
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I was very sad to learn about Mehmet Sari’s passing, and would like to extend my deepest condolences to his family and former colleagues.
I worked with Mehmet and his amazing team from 2023-25, as a member of the U.S. government’s Office of Refugee Admissions. To cite one of many examples when Mehmet’s dedication and perseverance made a difference in the lives of refugees: Mehmet went above and beyond to closely monitor the progress of a group of Afghan students who had been evacuated from Kabul through the U.S. Refugee Admissions process. He actively followed up on each case to ensure its advancement and the students’ onward departure to the United States.
May his memory be a blessing.
Laurie Trost, Program Officer, U.S. Department of State
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I had the honor and privilege of working with and knowing Mehmet Sari as Deputy Coordinator for the U.S. Government’s Office of Refugee Admissions. During our three years together, Mehmet faced nearly every challenge a manager or person can encounter — both professionally and personally. I cannot say enough about his compassion, integrity, grace under pressure, and composure, all while continuing to serve some of the most vulnerable people in the world.
Mehmet’s legacy will live on through the refugees he and his team worked to resettle, and through his three outstanding children, who are following in his footsteps by pursuing careers in medicine — dedicated, like him, to serving the most vulnerable. My sincerest condolences and warmest regards go out to his family and friends during this difficult time. Thank you, Mehmet, for your life’s work as a humanitarian.
Josue Rivera-Olds, Deputy Regional Coordinator, U.S. Consulate General, Turkey
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