Adel Habib Ibrahim, a man known for his infectious smile, generous heart, and humble faith in the Lord Jesus Christ passed away leaving a rich legacy of love and joy to his family and friends.

Born in Cairo, Egypt in 1931 to Habib and Fulla Ibrahim, Adel was homeschooled by his mother during his elementary years. He went on to complete high school and earned a bachelor’s degree in accounting. He married his devoted and loving wife, Shadia, in 1962. He dedicated 18 years to his career as an accountant at Barclays Bank in Cairo before immigrating to the United States in 1969.

Adel and his family settled in Queens, New York, near his younger brother. There, he began a career with American Express, where he remained until his retirement. The family moved to Edison, New Jersey, in 1975, as they sought a home in the suburbs, and eventually relocated to Holland, Michigan in 1997 to be closer to their grown children.

In his 40s, Adel trusted in the person and work of Jesus Christ as his Savior, was baptized as a born-again believer and became a committed churchman. He was a man of great compassion, always ready to extend hospitality to friends and strangers alike. He took great delight in Shadia’s wonderful cooking and wanted all who entered their home to enjoy it with him. Adel found joy in the simple pleasures of life: visiting with family and friends, gardening, woodworking, playing tennis, chess or backgammon, and watching western movies. He possessed an amiable nature and a ready laugh that brought joy to many who knew him.

In his final years, Adel endured the trials of dementia. In 2012, he and Shadia moved from Holland into the home of their son and daughter-in-law in Canton, Michigan. Even into his final days, Adel’s contagious smile and personality remained so evident that his caretakers frequently commented on what a genuine joy it was to interact with him. He passed peacefully into eternity at age 95 to be with his Savior surrounded at home by his family.

Adel was the last of his immediate generation, preceded in death by his parents and his three brothers, Nazir, Wagee, and Nabil.

He is survived by Shadia, his beloved wife of 64 years, devoted son Bernard Ibrahim (Punam) and daughter Vivian Boot (Jacob), treasured grandchildren Shadriana Blok (Travis), Johannes Boot, Jacobus Boot (Sara), Lenora West (Kevin), Nathaniel Ibrahim, Priscilla Boot, Briana Ibrahim, Amos Boot, three precious great grandchildren and many loving nieces and nephews.

A Memorial Service for Adel will be held on Saturday, June 27th at 1:00 p.m. at Grace Baptist Church of Canton, 4075 S. Sheldon Road, Canton.