Enkenyelesh « Nunush » Bekele

In Loving Memory of Enkenyelesh (Nunush)

Enkenyelesh, lovingly known as Nunush, was born on August 25, 1960, in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, to her parents, Mr. Bekele Negash Woldeyohanes and Ms. Amsale Woldegeorgis Zewedu. She was the fourth of twelve children.

At the age of four, Nunush began kindergarten at Nazareth School in Addis Ababa, where she continued her education through Grade 12, graduating in 1978. During Ethiopia’s military regime, she moved to the United States and settled in Minnesota. She received a scholarship to attend Bethel College, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in Health Administration.

Following graduation, she moved to Virginia and joined the laboratory at Virginia Tech. There, she collaborated with research scientists in the study of plant-parasitic nematodes and contributed to the discovery of new species, one of which was named in her honour—a lasting recognition of her scientific contributions.

Nunush later moved to Canada with her husband, settling in Ottawa, where they raised their two children, Beza and Blaine. From 2005 to 2013, she worked as a Research Associate at Élisabeth Bruyère Hospital, continuing her commitment to research and the advancement of knowledge.

Throughout her life, Nunush cultivated lasting relationships with countless people who became devoted friends for life. She was deeply committed to serving the Ethiopian community, leaving a particularly meaningful legacy through the Saturday Amharic classes she established for young children. Many of the children who attended her classes have since graduated from university and entered the Canadian workforce in a wide range of professions. Through her patient and dedicated teaching, she helped them preserve their mother tongue while nurturing an appreciation for Ethiopia’s rich cultural heritage. Her selfless service earned her the enduring respect and gratitude of generations of parents and students.

Nunush expressed her love and generosity in countless other ways through her many talents. She was a wonderful cook, a talented knitter, a dedicated gardener, and a gifted seamstress. These were more than practical skills; they were expressions of her creativity, thoughtfulness, and desire to bring joy and comfort to others. Whether preparing a delicious meal, knitting something by hand, tending to her garden, or sewing with care, she poured her heart into everything she did. Through these simple yet meaningful acts, she made those around her feel loved and cared for.

One of Nunush’s most admirable qualities was her extraordinary determination and resilience. Despite living with debilitating rheumatoid arthritis, she refused to allow her condition to keep her from participating in life or being there for the people she loved. She rarely missed a family gathering or special occasion, making every effort to be present even when doing so required considerable strength and perseverance. Her steadfast commitment to family and friends reflected the depth of her love and the importance she placed on preserving the bonds that united them. Her courage and determination were an inspiration to those who knew her.

Nunush was also a founding Board member and Treasurer of the Solomon Dawit Foundation, where she served actively for 17 years. She played an invaluable role in evaluating projects, raising funds, and helping ensure the successful implementation of initiatives in Ethiopia. These included providing meals for schoolchildren, supporting elder care, constructing washrooms for girls in schools, and advancing agricultural initiatives for young people. Through her diverse talents, creativity, strong work ethic, and quick wit, she made significant contributions to the Foundation’s mission and helped improve the lives of many people. Her dedication to this work reflected her deep compassion and enduring commitment to the well-being of others.

Nunush will be remembered for her generosity, perseverance, creativity, and unwavering dedication to her family, friends, and community. She lived a life of purpose, touching hearts through her kindness, inspiring others through her determination, and making a lasting difference through her service. Her legacy will live on in the people she nurtured, the young minds she inspired, the cultural heritage she helped preserve, and the communities she served. The many lives she touched will continue to bear witness to the remarkable person she was.

Though her passing leaves a profound void in the hearts of those who loved her, the memories of her warmth, laughter, generosity, and indomitable spirit will remain with us always.

Nunush will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever cherished by all who knew her.

May she rest in eternal peace. May God grant comfort and strength to her family and friends as they mourn her passing, celebrate her life, and keep her cherished memory in their hearts and prayers.