Renowned cardiologist and philanthropist Dr Muhammad Khalid Riaz passes away

Interventional cardiologist and co-founder of the Human Development Foundation (HDF) Dr Muhammad Khalid Riaz, passed away peacefully in Chicago on April 9.

A prominent member of the Pakistani diaspora, Dr Riaz practiced medicine in Chicago for 50 years, earning accolades such as being named among the “Top Doctors in America” by USA Today. Beyond his medical career, Dr Riaz was deeply committed to uplifting marginalised communities in Pakistan. In 1997, he co-founded HDF, which grew into a leading organisation in education, healthcare, and poverty alleviation. His efforts earned him a spot among the “500 Most Influential Muslims in the World” by Georgetown University in 2009.

A respected community leader, Dr Riaz served as President of the Association of Pakistani Physicians of North America (APPNA) and was a founding member of the Pakistan Political Action Committee (PakPAC).

He is survived by his wife, two sons, daughters-in-law, grandchildren, siblings, and extended family. His legacy of service and compassion will be remembered by countless lives he touched.