Washington, D.C. – Befeker Assefa, a 21-year-old student at Carnegie Mellon University, passed away on August 18th after a courageous battle with recurring Ewing Sarcoma. Befeker was studying Statistics and Machine Learning and was a member of the Tartans Scholars Honors Society.
Befeker was remembered by friends and family as a cherished son, brother, and friend. His name, meaning "By Love," truly captured his kind and spirited nature, which left a lasting impact on those who knew him.
In the wake of Befeker’s passing, his family faces significant financial challenges due to his prolonged illness. Friends and community members have organized a GoFundMe campaign to help cover the expenses. The fundraiser, organized by Yonatan Zelalem, has raised $400 of its $50,000 goal so far, with contributions coming from supporters such as Hanibal Minda and Minda Desta.
The Ethiopian Seventh Day Adventist Church in Washington, D.C., where Befeker was known and loved, shared the heartbreaking news on Facebook. The post called for the community’s support, both emotionally and financially, to help the Assefa family during this difficult time.
Several friends and community members expressed their condolences on Facebook. Yonatan Zelalem posted, “Thank you for keeping Befeker and his family in your thoughts and prayers as we honor and remember his remarkable life. His spirit will continue to inspire all who knew him.”
Minda Desta commented, “Sending my deepest condolences to the Assefa family. Befeker was a bright light, and his memory will live on in our hearts.”
As the community rallies to support Befeker’s family, they remember him not only for his academic achievements but also for his warmth, kindness, and the love he shared with everyone around him.