Zena Siyoum

Zena (Gheblanesh to her family) Siyoum was born to her mother, Shito Feleke and her father, Siyoum Mekuria on October 30, 1962, in the historic city of Harar, previously called Hararghe.

When she reached school-age, she attended elementary school in Harar and completed secondary school in Ras Mekonnen Secondary School. In 1973, she moved to Addis Ababa with her loving grandmother and aunt, who raised her. She was raised with her cousin Lishane, who she considered her sister. In 1975, Zena moved to Italy with Lishane and her husband, Dr. Alemayethu Wodageneh, who named her Zena. After a short stay in Italy, she migrated to the United States. Immediately up arrival to the USA, faith, God, and love brought Webeshete and Zena together.

Their paths first joined for life on the flight bound for Dallas, Texas. Their friendship and commitment to each other laid the foundation for their love. They joined in holy matrimony soon after. Their beautiful wedding was the testament and affirmation of their love and life’s commitment to each other. They lived 32 years in marriage, each giving themselves completely to the other. From the moment they met, to the end of their lives, they lived together in love. They have lived as each other’s shadow. Their lives were intertwined; one cannot tell a story of one without including the other.

During Zena’s stay in Dallas, she attended Texas Black Haven College and worked at Highland Restaurant, where she was promoted to supervisor. When Webeshete was transferred to San Francisco, California, Zena moved with him and worked at Union Bank. Webeshete’s transfer in 1988 to Indianapolis began their 27 years in Indiana. In a short time, they connected with the Ethiopian community and created a strong social network and close friendships.

Zena has played a large role in strengthening the Indianapolis Ethiopian community. Zena, who had an active role in founding the St. Michael Orthodox Church, served as the church’s first treasurer. She worked at Indianapolis International Airport in customer service for airline travelers. Zena did not withhold her generosity of spirit, though was direct and spoke her mind clearly. Whether in jo or sorrow, she was the first to arrive where needed. She mourned with the mourning and celebrated with joy. Her compassion to those in need was boundless. In recent years, especially after the loss of Webeshete, her health declined quickly. She passed away April 18, 2023, at her home; the savior of the world, whom she loved, has rescued her from her toil and suffering.

Today, Saturday, April 22, 2023, the priests conducted the intercession for Zena at Debere Selam Kidus St. Michael Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahido Church at Indianapolis. Her body is to be accompanied by a procession to West Ridge Park Cemetery, 9295 West 21st Street, Indianapolis, IN 46234, USA. Last year, 19 days earlier, March 26, 2022, Webeshete was laid to rest. Today, Zena’s body will be laid to rest in the place prepared for her, next to her husband. May the Lord, whose goodness will never end, receive her soul in forgiveness.

Lauck & Veldhof Funeral & Cremation Services are assisting with arrangements.

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