Kurien Mathew

Kurien was born on May 20, 1946, in Kooryanoor, Kerala, India, the eldest of five children born to T.K. Mathew and Kunjamma Mathew. From an early age, he was known for his quiet determination, intellectual curiosity, and deep sense of responsibility—qualities that shaped the course of his life.

On June 7, 1973, in Kidangannur, Kerala, Kurien married Susan George. Together they shared a remarkable 39 years of marriage, building a life grounded in faith, love, and shared values. Susan preceded him in death, and Kurien continued to honor her memory through his devotion to family and service to others.

Kurien was a loving and farsighted father to Anup Kurien, Judy Flock, and Saumia Kurien, always placing his family at the very center of his life. He sacrificed endlessly for them, always setting aside his own ambitions, comforts, and needs so that his children could have stability, opportunity, and a future shaped by care and strong values.

He took immense pride in his children and grandchildren. Anup is married to Rebekah Kurien, and together they are the parents of Zachary. Judy is married to Frederik Flock, and they are the proud parents of two sons, Daniel and Eric Flock. Kurien found deep joy in watching the next generation grow and cherished every moment spent with his family.

Kurien began his teaching career at St. Xavier’s College in Kolkata, India, where his passion for education and mentorship first took shape. He later moved to Ethiopia, a country that became central to his professional and personal journey. Over the course of his distinguished career, he taught at General Wingate School, Awalia School, Cathedral Night School, and the Indian Community School, before retiring from the Greek Community School.

A dedicated and outstanding educator, Kurien touched countless lives and was admired and loved by students and colleagues alike for his commitment, integrity, and patience. His esteemed reputation as an exceptional teacher gained recognition among foreign service officers stationed in Addis Ababa, including ambassadors and United Nations diplomats, which led to his appointment as a private tutor to their children. In recognition of his exceptional contribution to education, he was awarded Best Teacher by the Ethiopian Government in 1985.

Beyond his professional life, Kurien was a gentle soul with a wide range of passions. He had a lifelong love for stamp and coin collecting, proudly assembling pieces from around the world. He was deeply interested in politics and was a voracious reader of newspapers and magazines, always eager to stay informed and engage in thoughtful discussion.

A firm believer in Christ, Kurien led Adult Sunday School Lessons for a diverse congregation for over a decade, offering his time, wisdom, and unwavering dedication. He was a patient and attentive listener—a trusted presence to friends and family alike—known for his calm nature, kindness, and quiet strength.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, February 7, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. ET, at Elton Black & Son Funeral Home, 1233 Union Lake Road, White Lake, Michigan 48386. The family will recieve visitors from 1:00 pm until the time of service.

Kurien Mathew will be remembered as a devoted husband and selfless father, a respected and inspiring teacher, a man of deep faith, and a compassionate human being whose life was defined by sacrifice, service, and love. His legacy lives on in the many lives he touched and the family he cherished above all else.