Zelalem Mengistu Bishaw, age 87, passed away on June 7, 2023, surrounded by his loving family in Burnsville. Born in the Ethiopian highlands in the Meket district of the Amhara region, Zelalem led a remarkable life dedicated to serving others. He worked tirelessly for the Ethiopian disaster relief agency as a skilled truck driver, demonstrating unwavering commitment during the devastating 1984 famine. Over the course of his extensive career, Zelalem fearlessly traversed treacherous roads and harsh weather conditions, ensuring the delivery of vital food aid to those in desperate need.

Zelalem is survived by his four children, Elsa Tememew, Selamawit Mengistu, Elias Mengistu, and Sosena Mengistu, as well as his six beloved grandchildren, Sabrina Ahmed, Ehab Ahmed, Nolawi Hailemariam, Caleb Eyob, Ariyam Eyob, and Betselot Zelalem. His profound impact on their lives and the memories they shared will forever be cherished.

A memorial service in honor of Zelalem will be held Saturday 6/10 from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm at the Selassie Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Cathedral, located at 2601 Minnehaha Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55406. Following the memorial, a funeral will be held at the Bloomington Cemetery at 2:00 pm, providing an opportunity for friends and loved ones to pay their final respects.

Zelalem Mengistu Bishaw leaves behind a legacy of selflessness, resilience, and compassion. His commitment to helping those in need will continue to inspire generations to come. May his soul rest in eternal peace.

Published on June 10, 2023