Dr. Robert H. Aki

Dr. Robert H. Aki, 70, of Barrington, passed away peacefully at home on August 15, 2025, surrounded by his family. Born on December 10, 1954, in Chicago to the late Harvey and Mariko Aki, Robert was raised in Wilmette, IL.

He graduated from Coe College in Cedar Rapids before earning his medical degree at Rosalind Franklin Medical School in North Chicago. He went on to complete his residency in general surgery at Cook County Hospital. He then worked in trauma surgery at Christ Hospital before moving to the suburbs.

Dr. Aki dedicated more than 30 years of his life as a general surgeon at Northwest Community Hospital in Arlington Heights. Known for his skill, dedication, and hands-on approach, he was among the early users of the DaVinci Robot, helping to pioneer new surgical techniques that transformed the way operations were performed. He retired in 2020, leaving behind a legacy of excellence and compassion in medicine.

Beyond his professional achievements, Robert was a strong-willed and devoted family man. He loved fishing, the outdoors, and the simple joys of good food and fine wine. The mountains were his sanctuary—he was an avid skier and, in his 50s, even learned to snowboard so he could share the slopes with his children. His love for nature, adventure, and family defined much of his life outside of the hospital.

Dr. Aki will be deeply missed by his loving children, Maria, Matt, Laura and Caroline Aki; his brothers, David and William Aki; nephews, Tyler and Michael Aki; niece, Megan Aki; and by many loving friends, colleagues and patients.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Visitation will be Friday, August 22, 2025 from 4 PM until 8 PM at Davenport Family Funeral Home and Crematory, 941 S. Old Rand Rd., Lake Zurich, IL 60047.

A celebration of Dr. Aki’s life will be held on Saturday, August 23, at 10 am in the Chapel at Willow Creek Church, 67 Algonquin Rd, Entrance B, South Barrington, IL 60010. A reception will follow. Interment of ashes will be private.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society or Illinois Special Olympics.