Justin Abraham

Age 89, of St. Paul, MN

Passed peacefully to eternal life with his Lord and Savior on August 16, 2023, in St. Paul, MN, surrounded by numerous loved ones.

He is preceded in death by parents Saramma and Varkey Abraham, brother James (Aleyamma) and sister Joyamma (Thomas), daughter-in-law Alice Abraham, sister-in-law Alice Varghese, and brother-in-law Varghese Varghese. Dr. Abraham is survived by his loving wife of 68 years, Grace, their children Roy, Kurian (Alice), Reena (Ron), 9 grandchildren, 3 great grandchildren, sister Saloma, brother Johns (Lisa), and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and beloved in-laws.

He was a pioneer in the Indian community immigrating to Minnesota from Kerala, India in 1968. He paved the way for so many others providing gracious hospitality and counsel in his roles as husband, father, brother, uncle, grandfather, teacher, and friend. Everyone benefited from his generosity and kindness.

Justin faced many adversities but remained disciplined in his educational pursuits to obtain numerous academic credentials including a Ph.D. in comparative languages from Sagar University. Justin once noted “My life has always been a struggle for survival. So, for me, to be successful has meant to set goals and work to see them accomplished.”

Prior to leaving India, Justin was vice president at St. Stephen’s College in Kerala. He was a professor at Bethel University in MN, where he chaired the Economics and Business Department before moving to CA in 1984. He retired as chair and professor of the Computer Science Department at National University in San Diego, CA, before moving back to MN in 2003. He was an inspiration to his many students and faculty whose lives he touched with his infectious smile and quick wit.

His knowledge of history, politics, sports, and current events was unequaled, and he was fluent in various languages. Justin was a man of strong faith who enjoyed teaching Bible Study classes at churches he was a member of in MN and CA. He and Grace spent one year doing missionary work in India after his retirement. They had the pleasure of traveling the world for many adventures abroad. Those who knew him appreciated his singing and enthusiasm for music. There were enjoyable moments at his side watching Twins and Vikings games or fishing at local lakes. He also coached soccer at Bethel at a time when the sport was just becoming known to Minnesotans.

The family wishes to acknowledge the kind and compassionate care provided by the many staff at New Perspectives Senior Living in Highland Park and the care team from Brighton Hospice.

To honor Dr. Abraham’s wishes, there will be no funeral service. He relished in the company of family and friends, so please celebrate his memories as a tribute to his remarkable life. The family will hold a private inurnment ceremony at a later date.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.sunsetfuneralservices.com for the Abraham family.