While still in Egypt, he was active in his church youth group and met his future wife, Nadia. They would also attend school together; both would study accounting at the University of Cairo. Upon completing his degree, he got a job as a purser in the emerging Nile River cruise business on the S.S. Arabia.
As the 1960’s drew to a close, the government tension in Egypt had Naim and Nadia thinking about relocating. A decision to move to California was made clear in 1967 but would not take place until 1969. Naim was a loving father who treasured his two children, Sam and Susie. His business career in the US would begin with a job in accounting for Bechtel where he would move up the ladder and eventually become the controller.
The passion of Naim’s life was not in business despite his prowess. He loved the Lord Jesus and His people. He served in youth camps throughout his life and was a shepherd in the faith to countless numbers of younger people. Said one young man, “This man invested in us.” Naim would be direct at other times and the term was coined, “You’ve been Naiminated.”
The Lord saw fit to call home Nadia in 2004. She had worked tirelessly with Naim in the ministry and they had built a home that was known worldwide for hospitality. During his time as a widower, the Lord made clear to Naim that he would need help to continue the work that was given to him. He met Peg at a missions camp; the Lord was preparing them for another chapter in each of their lives. A couple years later, Naim would marry Peg. The work with the young people and Bible camp would continue up to the final weeks of his sojourn here.
Naim was promoted on July 28, 2021. He is survived by his wife Peg; son Sammy (Lisa), daughter Susie (Gabe) Iorga; five grandchildren – Matthew Sawires, Joseph Sawires, Colton Sawires, Blake Sawires, and Kate Iorga and two brothers – Shaker Sawires and Kamel Sawires.
In lieu of flowers, donations to Carmel Hills (carmelhills.org) or Vacation Bible Camp (gtcamps.org) in Naim's honor are appreciated.
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