Abraham C. Mathai

Our father, Abraham, was born on May 5, 1955, in Ranni, Kerala, India, to the late K.C. Mathai and Aleyamma Mathai. He completed his primary education at Bethany Ashram High School and his high school education at St. Thomas School in Ranni. After finishing school, he moved to Mumbai for a professional education in Flexographic Printing Technology.

Abraham began his career in Mumbai, working from 1976 to 1981. Then moved to the Middle East, seeking better opportunities, and built a successful career there for 19 years until 2000. Upon returning to Kerala, he found joy in farming and became known for his innovative organic farming techniques. His contributions were recognized, and he received an award as the best farmer in the district for his organic farming practices.

In 2006, Abraham relocated with his family to Des Plaines, Illinois, and enrolled in college to study Respiratory Therapy. During his first vacation back to India in 2008, he underwent a routine colonoscopy, which led to the discovery of cancer. After returning to the U.S., he was diagnosed with stage four cancer, and doctors gave him only 90 days to live after starting chemotherapy, which was a devastating blow. Nevertheless, he turned to prayer and Scripture during this challenging time, deepening his relationship with the Lord and experiencing a spiritual rebirth in Christ. But God extended his life for another sixteen years. Until he was taken to the hospital, he was an active worshipping member at IPC Hebron with his family.

Despite the difficulties he faced, Abraham never expressed disappointment or complaints. He lived with strength and resilience akin to that of Job in the Bible. As stated in Job 1:1, he was "perfect and upright, and one that feared God and turned away from evil." Abraham served as a shining example for his family and children, sharing his faith, worship, and the teachings of Jesus Christ with everyone he met.

He married Rachel Abraham on July 23, 1984, and together they built a life filled with faith and love. His unwavering willpower and trust in the Lord allowed him to witness his children's lives, careers, weddings, and their generations even after he was given 90 days to live in 2008. He was blessed with two Children: Abu Abraham, his firstborn, who married Sonu Abraham; and they were blessed with two children, Aephraim Abu Abraham, and Rachelle Abu Abraham; and Abey Abraham, his second-born, who married Ashly Abraham, and they were also blessed with two children, Manasseh Abey Abraham and Abigail Abey Abraham.

Abraham is survived by his brother CM Cherian (Thampi), and sisters Annamma Mathew (Kunjujamma), Mariamma Thomas (Ammini), Saramma Mathai (Alice), and was preceded in death by his brothers CM George (Kunjumon), CM John (Baby), and CM Varghese (Thankachen).

Abraham's life was a testament to faith, perseverance, and the power of prayer. As he often expressed, "Lord, cancer is not just a disease to complain about but an opportunity to know the saving grace and love of my Savior Jesus Christ and to make Him known to all."

His legacy of faith, boundless love, and remarkable strength will continue to inspire and uplift our family and all who were blessed to know him.

A visitation for Abraham will be held Monday, November 11, 2024 from 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Oehler Funeral Home, 2099 Miner Street, Des Plaines, IL. A visitation will also take place Tuesday, November 12, 2024 from 9:00 AM until the time of the funeral service at 9:30 AM at Hebron Gospel Center, 2430 E. Ballard Rd., Des Plaines, IL. A committal service will follow on Tuesday, November 12, 2024 at 12:00 PM at All Saints Cemetery, 700 N. River Rd., Des Plaines, IL.

Abu C. Abraham and Abey C. Abraham