Asfaha Embaie

A TRIBUTE TO OUR FATHER – A STORY ABOUT A GREAT MAN ASFAHA EMBAIE It is with profound love and heavy hearts that we gather to honor the life and legacy of our beloved father, Asfaha Embaie—known to many simply as “Happy.” He passed away peacefully on the morning of June 30, 2025, surrounded by the love of his children and grandchildren. He was 92 years old. Born in Croce Rossa to his parents, Embaie Gebre Kristos and Kedes Weldeab, Asfaha was one of eight siblings—Tsehaytu, Haialu, Fana, Abraha, Zewdi, Geremeskel, Lemlem, and Haile. He was raised in Medeber, Asmara, Eritrea, in a home grounded in faith, tradition, and enduring family values. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Abrehet Tesfai, with whom he shared a joyful and devoted marriage. Their love was both enduring and playful—a quiet strength that carried them through life’s triumphs and trials. They even had a secret code in their letters: “80,” representing the initials of his beloved, Abrehet Tesfai (AT). Together, they were blessed with eight children: Ruth, Adiam, Sandro, Nitzhiti, Eden, Hosanna, Mesfin, and Ketem. He was a proud grandfather to ten grandchildren—Lumuel, Bethiel, Faven, Tomas, Daniel, Isaac, Yoel, Noami, Justice, and Naod—and a joyful great-grandfather to Christian Washington. He cherished his extended family, beginning with his beloved sister-in-law Zaid Alemu, her late husband Kidane Ketema, and their children—Mussie, Aron, and Medhanie, Zion and Lydia, along with Lydia’s husband Robiel Tsegai and their daughters, Sidona and Syenna. His nieces Elsa Yohanes and Sara Tesfai brought him laughter and companionship over the years. He also held deep love and respect for his four sons-in-law: the late Ambassador Girma Asmerom, the late Sahle Melles, Yonas Michael, and his dear friend and beloved son-in-law, John Richards. Asfaha answered to many names. To his parents, he was Asfaha. To his children, he was Baba, Aboy, or Babuchi. To his nieces and nephews, Akoy. To his siblings and lifelong friends, Asfahaley. But the name he chose for himself captured him best: “Happy.” And that is exactly who he was—a man who radiated peace, joy, and quiet strength. He never raised his voice. He never held a grudge. Even in hardship, he walked with humility and grace—choosing love, patience, and kindness every time. He greeted the world with a warm smile, open arms, and a heart big enough for everyone. He was a gifted storyteller, a writer, and a lifelong learner. He loved books, music, and dancing—oh, how he danced! The tango, the waltz, the twist, the cha-cha—every step filled with joy. He published two books: The Way to Wisdom (Lebona)—after which his great-grandson, Lbona Medhane Kidane, was lovingly named—and The Story of Mary: The Mother of Jesus. These works reflected his deep faith and his reverence for truth and beauty. He was such an accomplished world traveler that he even carried a business card declaring it: “World Traveler.” To him, every journey was an opportunity to learn, to connect, and to grow. He often said: “The eyes never get tired of seeing, the ears never get tired of hearing. Keep living, and keep seeing new things.” For him, travel wasn’t just movement—it was celebration. From a young age, Asfaha demonstrated discipline, humility, and brilliance. At just 15, under the British administration in Asmara, he began working as Chief Police Secretarial Assistant. His favorite supervisor, Mr. Olsen, became a lifelong mentor. “He taught me everything,” Asfaha often said—lessons in professionalism, diplomacy, and clear thinking. Yet his loyalty always belonged to his people. He loved Eritrea fiercely and believed in its right to freedom and dignity. In 1975, his political activism led to imprisonment for two years—a sacrifice that became a lasting testament to his courage and principles. He later served as Station Manager for Ethiopian Airlines in Asmara for 32 years, during which he proudly took his parents to Jerusalem in 1964—a lifelong dream fulfilled. In 1987, he and Abrehet immigrated to the United States—a journey he often called “destiny.” Though he lost her just six years later, in 1992, he continued to live with grace, resilience, and unshakable faith. For 33 years, he lived without her—but never without her memory. He never remarried. He remained faithful, devoted, and steadfast in honoring their love. After moving to the U.S., he worked as a bellman at the Hilton Hotel in Harrisburg—a job he carried out with dignity and quiet pride. For him, no work was beneath him, especially when it meant serving others and supporting his family. He cherished his extended family in Harrisburg and the many friends who became family. Whether near or far, he checked in, offered blessings, and made sure everyone knew they mattered. He connected with everyone—elders, children, priests, professors, ambassadors, and neighbors alike. He called them all Bechay—his way of saying, “You are my friend. You are loved.” He was a pillar of the Eritrean community in Harrisburg. As President of the Eritrean Association and a founding member of the Eritrean Orthodox Church, he brought people together—encouraging unity, cultural pride, and faith in action. His devotion to God was unwavering. He believed the Bible was the greatest gift and shared it generously. Bible study was a daily rhythm in his home. Whether reading scripture, singing Mesmure, or praying with his children, his faith was a living, breathing part of who he was. Asfaha didn’t just live a long life—he lived a full one. He laughed freely, gave generously, and found joy in the beauty of everyday life. He loved nature—whether it was admiring a bouquet of flowers or walking along the Susquehanna River. Even in his final days, he taught us how to live. Though he longed to stay with us, he understood that all things have their time. He often reminded us: “To travel the world, you need a passport and a ticket. But to travel to Heaven, you must die. Death is the only passport to Heaven.” We will miss him dearly. But we also celebrate him, knowing that his journey has not ended—it has simply transformed. He is now with his beloved Abrehet, reunited at last. And his legacy—his love, wisdom, and faith—lives on in each of us. Respectfully Submitted, The Family of Asfaha Embaie Immediately following the Service of Interment, a luncheon reception will be held at Christ the Savior Orthodox Church, 5501 Old Locust Lane, Harrisburg, PA 17109. FAMILY AND FRIENDS ARE ENCOURAGED TO CLICK ON THE SHARE A MEMORY TAB TO POST VIDEOS, SHARE MEMORIES, CONDOLENCES, REFLECTIONS OR SIMPLY LEAVE YOUR NAME.

Tributes

Asfaha Embaie

October 5, 1932 - June 30, 2025