Gizaw Makuria

Livestream - May 5, 2025 - 11am to 1pm Pacific Standard Time

In Loving Memory of Gizaw Makuria

With deep sorrow and heartfelt remembrance, we announce the passing of our beloved father, Gizaw Makuria, who passed away on April 30, 2025, at the age of 87. Gizaw’s life was a testament to loyalty, dedication, and perseverance.

Born in Kersa, Harar, Ethiopia, Gizaw was raised by loving parents who nurtured his resilience and ambition from an early age. At just eight years old, he left home in search of a better life, making the courageous journey from rural Kersa to the bustling capital of Addis Ababa. His drive to build a future through education led him to study at Teferi Mekonnen School and later pursue civil engineering degree at the Building College of Addis Ababa University.

Gizaw dedicated over 30 years of service to the Ethiopian Telecommunication Authority, beginning as a field engineer and rising to become Head of the Civil Engineering Department. He served with integrity and pride, earning the respect of his colleagues and community. After retirement, his love for his family led him to the United States, where he continued to support his children’s futures and educational goals.

Gizaw, a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, was the cherished patriarch of his family. He shared 60 blessed years of marriage with his beloved wife, Roman, united in holy communion. He is survived by Roman and their five children: Michael, Elleni, Gabriel, Abiy, and his late son, Enque Selassie, who is dearly missed. Gizaw was a steady and loving presence in their lives, celebrating graduations, weddings, and the births of his grandchildren. His steady support and deep love were a source of strength through life’s many milestones.

He was a proud grandfather to eight grandchildren, each of whom brought him great joy:

• Enque’s son, Enque Junior
• Elleni and Daniel’s children, Abigail and Gabriela
• Gabriel and Heidi’s children, Rachel, Savannah, Caleb, and Autumn
• Abiy and Lucy’s son, Moses

Gizaw deeply cherished his role as a grandfather, embracing it with warmth, wisdom, and persistent love. He found immense joy in guiding, supporting, and celebrating each of his grandchildren.

We also honor and mourn the memory of his son, Enque Selassie, who remains forever in our hearts.

Gizaw leaves behind a legacy of quiet strength, deep love, and enduring resilience—values that will continue to inspire all who knew him. His memory lives on in the lives he touched and the family he so deeply loved.

May he forever rest in eternal peace.

Romans 12:11-12 (NIV)

"Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.”

Thank you to everyone who has reached out during this difficult time. Your support means so much. If you feel moved to help, we deeply appreciate your kindness as we honor our beloved father.

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