Alexander Z. Awale

Alexander Zekarias Awale, “Alex,” as he was known to many, was born Monday, January 1, 1979, in Kasala, Sudan, the eldest child of Frewieni Kidane Haile and Zekarias Dermas. At thirty-one years of age, on Sunday, May 8, 2011, at the Penn State Hershey Medical Center, Hershey, Pennsylvania, Alex transitioned to eternal rest encircled by the comfort and love of his family. Alex was raised quickly to play the role of “Big Brother” to his younger brothers and sisters with whom he shared a very close relationship. Up until his time of departure, Alex fulfilled this role with loving concern and a passionate desire to see success in each of their lives. Alex was known by his siblings and parents equally as a good son and a good brother; someone who was a disciplinarian, yet someone who was concerned about the well-being of his family, both immediate and extended. Aside from maintaining his responsibilities at home, he was known as an avid student/athlete. A graduate of Harrisburg High School, John Harris Campus, and the ROTC Program, he was recognized as a great soccer player as well as a talented football kicker and team leader for the Harrisburg High Cougars. Alex continued his fast-pace yet diligent work ethic at the workplace as an employee at Fresh Express, Inc. He attended Christ The Saviour Orthodox Church where he formerly served as an Altar Boy. Alex enjoyed watching anything sports related, more specifically, soccer, football and basketball. He was known to be a huge Dallas Cowboys fan and wore his love for the team proudly. But, above all, the one thing he loved and cherished the most was the small things in life that most people would consider insignificant whether it was sharing a joke or sharing a meal. A simple favor returned from his family members or loved ones would really put a smile on his face, and he would return that favor as well. Whenever you talked to Alex, he would give you a smile. Alex leaves his legacy of strength and courage to be honored by his mother, Frewieni Kidane Haile; father, Zekarias Dermas; his sisters, Senait and Saba Awale; his brothers, Dawit, Andom and Samuel Awale, all of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania; as well as special cousins, other family members, childhood friends and coworkers.

Tributes

Alexander Z. Awale

January 1, 1979 - May 8, 2011