Tewolde Debesai

Our beloved father, husband, brother, uncle, grandfather, and friend, Warrant Officer Tewolde Debesai, passed away on November 13, 2024, due to cardiac arrest. His passing was unexpected, leaving his family and friends profoundly heartbroken.

Tewolde, lovingly known as “Baba” to his children and grandchildren and “Ted” to others, was born on April 23, 1942, in Asmara, Eritrea, to Grasmat Debesai Medhane and Amleset Sebhatu. He was one of four children: Hajer, Tekle, and Abrehet. The only sibling to attend college, Tewolde achieved what few could in those times. He graduated high school from Kayeh Bahri (Kehaz) and later joined the Navy Academy, embarking on a life of service and education that took him to the United States, Holland, and Germany.

Tewolde furthered his studies at The University of Chicago, specializing in Logistics and Supply Chain Management. He excelled in his naval career, earning numerous accolades, including the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, and Navy Good Conduct Medal, awarded by Emperor Haile Selassie.

Despite his achievements, his naval career was cut short after a regime change in Ethiopia. Wrongfully accused of political opposition, he endured seven years of imprisonment. Yet, Tewolde’s indomitable spirit never wavered. Following his release, he rebuilt his life, serving as the Director of Logistics and Supply Chain Management at the Eritrean Textile Factory, where his innovations revolutionized operations in both Eritrea and Ethiopia.

In 1993, Tewolde contributed to Eritrea’s historic Referendum for Independence, playing a vital role in organizing its logistics. He later held leadership roles with international organizations and companies, including Anadarko Petroleum, where he managed logistics and supply chains for oil exploration. He also worked with NGOs, improving access to resources in remote areas of Eritrea, with a focus on distributing supplies to schools. In 2000, Tewolde emigrated to the United States, settling in Las Vegas. Through hard work and determination, he reunited his family, bringing his wife and youngest children to join him. He spent his final years in Clayton, California, surrounded by his wife Lettina, Daughter Haben, son in Law Dustin, GranddaughtersTess, Teags and son Meron. Tewolde’s life was defined not just by his accomplishments but by his remarkable character. Known for his generosity, kindness, and wisdom, he was a pillar of strength and positivity. He had a unique ability to make those around him feel seen and valued, and his infectious smile and warm laughter left a lasting impression on everyone he met. A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, Tewolde embodied the qualities of unconditional love, resilience, and faith in God. Baba was predeceased by his parents Debesai and Amlesu, his daughter Winta and his sister Abrehet. He is survived by his loving wife Letina, his sister, Hajer and brother, Tekel; his children: Feven (Fevu) and son-in-law Berhane, Adiam (Adu) and son-in-law Biniam, Michael (Maku) and Ledaya, Fereta, Filmon (Filly) and daughter-in-law Mia, Haben (Habu) and son-in-law Dustin, and Meron (Merona); grandchildren: Tommy, Milli, Yossy, Mikki, Yaphy, Lilu, Natty, Naby, Noah, Noel, Tess and Teag. He also leaves behind Hager and her family, Tekel and his family, Abrehet and her family, Birikti, and many more family and friends who adored him dearly. Those who knew Tewolde will cherish the memories of his laughter, his encouragement, and his unwavering commitment to love and family. His passing leaves a void in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him, but his legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched. 2 Thessalonians 3:16: “Now the Lord of peace himself give you peace always by all means. The Lord be with you all.” May he rest in eternal peace. Celebration of Life Service A service to honor the life of Warrant Officer Tewolde Debesai will be held on Saturday, November 23, 2024, at Palm Eastern Mortuary & Cemetery (7600 S. Eastern Ave., Las Vegas, NV 89123). Service time 9:00 AM to 11:00AM Followed by reception: 11:00AM to 1:00PM.