Yemane Weldeselase Teklai

Yemane Weldeselase Teklai (April 21, 1948 – April 4, 2026) was a beloved father, husband, brother, friend, and teacher whose presence touched so many. He lived a life defined by resilience, intellect, and deep love.

Yemane was born in Asmara, Eritrea, a place he carried in his heart with great pride. Known in his early years as Misgina Asgedom, or “Wede Arbate,” he was recognized for his intelligence, strength, and humor. He attended St. Mary’s School and Bet Giorgis, where he excelled academically. His passion for education led him to continue his studies in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. He went on to become a respected and deeply loved teacher of mathematics and biology, recognized for his exceptional ability to connect with and inspire his students.

During Eritrea’s war for independence, Yemane served as a soldier and endured profound loss, including the deaths of three of his siblings. After surviving the war, his journey took him through Sudan before immigrating to the United States, where he first arrived in Seattle, Washington, sponsored by Carol Pond, who became part of the family he built in his new life.

In Seattle, Yemane rebuilt his life with determination and generosity. He became a pillar of the Eritrean community, sponsoring family and friends to come to America, helping others find work, and easing their transition in the same way he had once been helped. He married his wife, Luula, and together they built a home filled with love, raising their three children—Danait, Melen, and Axel—with pride in their Eritrean identity, a deep respect for education, and a commitment to helping others.

At home, Yemane’s presence was constant and full of life. He woke early each morning, often beginning his day by reading the newspaper and working on sudoku puzzles, studying politics, or going for a run before anyone else was awake. He made sure his children stayed connected to their roots—watching EriTV, reciting the Eritrean national anthem, and learning the history and pride of where they came from through community events and gatherings. On weekends, he could often be found at local coffee shops with friends, debating the news, sharing stories, and filling every table with laughter.

Yemane was known for his charm, intellect, humor, and deep friendships. He loved conversation, learning, teaching, and bringing people together. Above all, he was a devoted father and a man who cared deeply.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Luula; his children, Danait, Melen, Axel, and Dawit; his sisters, Aregash and Alganesh; and a wide circle of family, friends, and community members.

Yemane was deeply loved, and will be forever missed.

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