George was born in 1931 and at the age of 10 became “Man of the House” having lost his father. His siblings recall how George took on this duty with enormous care and dedication. In 1948, as the British withdrew from Nazareth, George, with a letter of recommendation, visited Dr Bathgate at the Hospital where he immediately started work as an aid in the Male ward. With a servant heart, George took on external studies to fill various vacancies, such as X-Ray technician, Laboratory technician, bookkeeper, and a university degree in hospital administration. These studies were undertaken in his own time and at his own expense as he refused to allow them to impact the Hospital finances.
For over 30 years prior to retirement, George was the Financial and Administrative Manager. He was central in enabling the tremendous growth of the hospital throughout those years. George continued to approach each task with a servant heart and humility, always putting others first. As an example, he would ensure each employee got their due pay rise, but regularly “forgot” to do so for himself . . . until Dr Bernath would remind him of this “oversight”. George never looked for recognition or credit. On reaching his 50th work anniversary, he thought he could simply retire without notice. To give notice meant a leaving party, speeches, and praise . . . this horrified George.
The remarkable life of George Abdo can best be summed up in the words of Matthew 25:21 -” Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness”. George as a teenager was found faithful with the few things. Later, at the hospital, with a faithful servant heart, George was put in charge of many things. Now George is sharing in his Master’s happiness.
George leaves behind his dear wife Laila, his children, Sawsan, Elia, & Nardeen, as well as 9 grandchildren, and 12 great-grandchildren. Let’s give thanks for a life well lived and pray that God bless, protect, and bring comfort to the Abdo family at their time of grief.
David Woodhead
