A Short Biography of Zegeye Gebremariam Maru 

16 May 1938 ----- 19 October 2022 

On May 16, 1938, Zgeye was born at Zekelo, Senafe sub zone, and in the Southern Region of Eritrea. His parents were: Gebremariam Maru Fseha (father and priest) and Wunesh Gebrekidan Temanu (mother). 

When he attained manhood, in 1968, he was married to Akeza Tekle Mezgebu. The marriage did not last long. In 1980, in Asmera, Zgeye got married to Asemash Abadama Abraham. Through that marriage, Zgeye has 3 children. From previous marriages and encounters, Zegeye had 4 children. The names of all of his children are: Freweyni, Senayt (martyred during the Eritrean war of independence), Berhane, Fsehaye, Esayas, Luwam and Aman. Zegeye was blessed with 9 grandchildren. 

After 6 months of marriage, due to the political turmoil in Eritrea that was created by the Ethiopian government, Zegye and Asemash left for The Sudan and lived there as refugees. In September 1983, due to the refugee resettlement plan of the USA and The Catholic Social Services, Zegeye and Asemash arrived at Dallas, Texas, USA, and lived there for three years. 

In October 1986, Zegeye and Asemash moved to Cincinnati, Ohio. While in Cincinnati, Zegeye lived an exemplary life. Zegeye lived with his wife, Asmash, for about 42 years!! 

As a resident of Cincinnati, Zegeye served in several roles. To mention some: 

Served as a member of The Local Eritrean National Holidays Committee 

1. Served as a member of the local PFDJ 

2. Served as a member of The Eritrean Community Association of Greater Cincinnati 

3. Served as a member of the Committee to support Eritrean martyrs and their families 

4. Served as a member of the Eritrean Orthodox Tewahdo Church of St. Michael 

Zegeye had other good qualities that made him live in harmony with all members of the Eritrean community. Those good qualities were: 

Generosity,  Hospitality, Love,  Steadfastness and Patience. 

It is believed many members of the Eritrean community had visited his house and have been entertained with food and drinks. Zegeye had been respected by all members of the Eritrean community. Unfortunately, due to illness of several years, Zegeye departed from us on 19 October 2022. It is with great sadness that we are bidding him “good bye”! We are going to miss him a lot! 

May The Gracious Lord accept him in His bosom! May all family members be strong and be comforted during this time of loss and mourning! Rest In Peace, dear friend!! 

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