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Dr. Prasada Rao Kakani, 80, peacefully passed away on April 23, 2024 at home surrounded by his family after his courageous battle with cancer.

Born in Akunuru, India, Rao was the second of six children. He was the first child to go to college. He then earned his MD at Andhra University in 1965.He immigrated to the United States in 1967 with his wife Bhavani and his infant daughter, Lakshmi. He entered medical residency at Euclid Memorial Hospital where a renown surgeon from Cleveland Clinic recognized Rao's gift for surgery, took Rao under his wing, and became his mentor and advocate. Rao then continued into surgery residency at Lutheran Hospital followed by Fellowships in Surgical Oncology & Vascular Surgery.

As the patriarch of his family, Rao made his home in Huntsville in 1974. He was instrumental in bringing many of his family and friends to the United States. Rao was the first Indian physician in Huntsville, paving the way for numerous doctors. He served as Chief of Surgery at Huntsville Hospital and was a founding member of The Surgery Center. He enjoyed teaching and mentoring both residents and colleagues.

He was a father to the fatherless, a second father to many, and a strong advocate for doctors and patients alike. He preserved his hands for surgery excellence during his esteemed career, but in retirement he enjoyed using his hands for his new favorite pastimes - cooking and gardening. He never met a stranger and could always be found immersed in a book. His smile and good hair were his trademark, and you couldn't leave his presence without hearing one of his jokes or philosophic stories. His life was a life well lived and well loved. Rao's sharp intellect, sense of humor, love for people, and seeking spirit will be greatly missed by his family and many friends. Rao will continue to be honored through his generational impact in this world and committed service to others.

Rao is preceded in death by his daughter Rupa Kakani. He is survived by Bhavani, his wife of 59 years, daughters Lakshmi Nallamala (Ramu), Radhika Kakani, and Rena Kakani, and his grandchildren, Kavi Nallamala, Ramann Nallamala (Daphne), two brothers, three sisters, and many nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, April 28, 2024 from 1-2:30 pm followed by a memorial service at the Berryhill Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, Rao and his family request you to consider supporting The Huntsville Hospital Foundation or AshaKiran, Inc. and to spread kindness forward.