Gizaw Haile Bekele

Ato Gizaw Haile was born June 18, 1942 in Bedeno, Eastern Hararge, Ethiopia, to his mother W/ro Mamete Kidane and his father Ato Haile Bekele. He was raised with strong values of discipline, faith, and hard work, which guided him throughout his life.

He received his early education in Bedeno, Eastern Hararge, through Mennonite missionaries, where he developed both academic knowledge and a strong spiritual foundation rooted in faith, compassion, and service. He later continued his studies at the Bible Academy in Nazareth, further strengthening his commitment to a life of purpose and service.

Ato Gizaw began his professional medical service at Deder Mennonite Hospital in Eastern Hararge, where he dedicated himself to caring for others with compassion, integrity, and a deep sense of responsibility. He later continued his work at Beder Hospital before establishing his own pharmacy in Hirna, Western Hararge.

For over three decades, he faithfully served his community as a pharmacist, providing essential healthcare and becoming a trusted and respected figure. His pharmacy stood as a pillar in the community, known for its care, reliability, and commitment to improving the well-being of others.

Ato Gizaw Haile was a devoted husband to his beloved wife, W/ro Shibera Aschenaki Beyene, with whom he shared 55 years of marriage. Their union was built on love, faith, mutual respect, and unwavering support for one

another, forming a strong and enduring family with three children—Mihret Gizaw Haile, Abiy Gizaw Haile, and Emmanuel Gizaw Haile—and a cherished grandfather to four grandchildren—Adonia Haile, Nehemiah Haile, Sayat Haile, and Lael Biniyam. He was a proud and loving father and grandfather, and his family was central to his life, and he took great pride in guiding and supporting them with wisdom, care, and love.

In 1996, he immigrated with his family to Atlanta, Georgia, where he began a new chapter of life surrounded by his loved ones. He remained a man of humility, quiet strength, and enduring faith.

Ato Gizaw Haile’s life is remembered for his unwavering faith, his lifelong service in healthcare, and his deep dedication to his family and community. His legacy of compassion, integrity, and service continues to live on through his children, grandchildren, and all those whose lives he touched.