BIOGRAPHY
Fitsum (Fitsumae) was the quintessential gentleman. He was a devoted husband, a loving father, a beloved son, a cherished brother, a loyal friend and a respected member of his community. He was passionate, gregarious and gracious. He believed in the merits of education and hard work. He also believed in kindness, in extending a helping hand when he saw a situation of need to which he could bring some aid. He earned respect through wit, humor, authenticity and unassailable integrity. His affection for people was sincere and his commitment to them steadfast. He was adored and respected by many who had the opportunity to cross paths with him. And this is why his untimely passing has been a cause for deep, interminable sorrow for many and motivation to start a foundation in his name.
At age 41, Fitsumae’s life was cut short by an accident that took place on May 31, 2015. He is survived by his wife and his daughter, both of whom he loved boundlessly. He is also survived by his parents, siblings, aunts, uncles, cousins, his large extended family and dear friends.
Fitsumae attended Nativity Boy’s school and St. Joseph high school in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia before moving to Michigan in 1989 to complete high school at Pontiac Northern High School in 1990. He received a B.A. and a M.A. in computer science from St. Mary’s College and Wayne State University in Michigan, respectively. He built a reputable career as an Infrastructure Consultant and Solutions Architect over 17 years at Hewlett Packard before recently accepting a position at Scality Inc. He was wildly sought after for his expertise in his field and respected for industriousness and effectiveness.
We shall remember Fitsumae for all of our days, reminded by memories of his kindness, his humor, the smile on his face and many intervening moments in our lives. He will remain the jewel of his family to the end.