Search by Name

Search by Name

ABDI ZALTASH Obituary

ZALTASH, DR. ABDI - of Knoxville, TN, died after a heroic struggle with Acute Myeloid Leukemia on Friday, October 18, 2013. He was born on May 7, 1959 in Tehran, Iran to Aini and Simin Zaltash. On July 3, 1995, he married his beloved wife Therese. He is survived by his wife; brothers Asad, Abbas and Ali Zaltash; nephews Reza and Rahi and God children Kiana and Armon Ansari, Isaac Mahderekal and Rainier and Kate Villatuya; great niece Yazmine and great nephew Shah. Abdi completed his undergraduate, masters and doctoral degrees in chemical engineering at the University of Pittsburgh. He worked as a Senior Research and Development (R&D) staff member at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory for over twenty years. Dr. Zaltash was the recipient of the 2011 "Oscars of Innovation" R&D 100 award for one of the top one hundred technology products of the year. He was the fellow and associate editor of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME). As a leader in his field, his accomplishments include: chair of the ASME heat pump technical committee, member of ASME Advanced Energy Systems Division and sub-committee chairperson of the American Society of Heating Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE). He also re-wrote the 2008 ASHRAE Handbook on Cogeneration Systems. A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, October 22, 2013 at the Beinhauer-Wolfe Funeral Home in Pittsburgh, PA at 11:00 AM. In addition a memorial service will be held at Central Baptist Church in Fountain City, Knoxville, TN on October 29, 2013 at 6:30 PM. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Dr. Abdi Zaltash Memorial Scholarship Fund: University of Pittsburgh c/o Dr. George Klinzing - Vice Provost for Research 826 Cathedral of Learning Pittsburgh, PA 15260. Abdi will be missed for his friendship, love and ever present smile. The family would like to thank Dr. Wahid Hanna and clinical staff at the University of Tennessee for their dedication to Abdi's care.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Marin Independent Journal on Oct. 21, 2013.

Memories and Condolences
for ABDI ZALTASH

Sponsored by anonymous.

Not sure what to say?





Ronald Fiskum

October 16, 2021

Abdi was an excellent leader in the cooling and heating technology Program at Oak Ridge National Laboratory in Tennessee. We had several technical meetings and Abdi was foremost in new ideas and testing. He was a great testing leader. We miss him very much. I often think about him, his presence was valuable in our discussion at the Laboratory.

December 18, 2013

Therese,

I very sorry for your loss. Abdi was a great person and friend and we will miss him a lot. I'm sorry that we weren't able to get to his memorial service. I understand that a lot of his friends were there to support you in your time of loss. God bless you and take care.

Tom and Colleen Rizy

Lorrie Crockett (Willbergh)

November 7, 2013

Therese, I am so sorry to hear this.
Praying for you and your family.
Much love

Alice Wershing

November 6, 2013

Therese,
I just learned of your husband's passing. Please know that my heart is heavy, and that I am sorry for your loss.

November 5, 2013

November 5, 2013

Tony Hills

November 4, 2013

When I first met Abdi, I thought, here is a great person who loves life and spreads a contagious warmth that I liked to be around. Even though I did not have a chance to get to know Abdi at a deep level, I know that we will have eternity in Heaven to rejoice. I am sorry for your loss Theresa and have you in my prayers. May God grant you peace beyond understanding and hold you so gently in His unending love.

Paul Sarkisian

October 29, 2013

I am so sorry for your loss Therese. Abdi was a joy to all who knew him. It is a great loss to all his friends and colleagues who enjoyed his warmth, intellect and humor.

October 29, 2013

Our deepest sympathies Therese. Abdi was a very strong and humble man and will be deeply missed. The love the two of you shared was so evident and when the two of you looked at each other you could feel the unstoppable force of Team Zaltash

Praying for your strength until you are reunited in God's Kingdom.

Tom & Paula Young

October 28, 2013

Therese, it is with a sad heart that Paula and I hear of the news of Abdi. If there is anything that we can do for you, please ask.

You and your family are in our prayers

October 28, 2013

October 28, 2013

October 28, 2013

holding on to each other always

October 28, 2013

October 28, 2013

October 28, 2013

October 28, 2013

October 28, 2013

October 28, 2013

not long enough.......................

October 28, 2013

October 28, 2013

Abdi was such a fine gentleman and I am better for knowing him and the world is worse for losing him.

October 28, 2013

There are simply no words to take away your heartache Therese, but trust in the fact that he ALWAYS referred to you as his princess that he truly cherished. He will always be with you my dear. Prayers.......

October 28, 2013

There will never be another man like Mr. Zaltash. His wife Therese was right when she called him a gift from Heaven. Now unfortunately her gift is gone....until you meet again. Stay strong and remember he is rejoicing with his family.

Reza

October 28, 2013

So sorry to hear this very sad news. Please extend my sincerest condolences to the family.

J. Pasquinelli, Case Mgr

October 28, 2013

Oh my gosh, this is the worst news!!! I am so devastated and hope that Therese is staying strong. He was a wonderful person and was obviously loved very much! Please pass on my condolences please to Mrs. Zaltash and tell her that I love her.

October 28, 2013

Therese joon I can't stop thinking about you, I hope God grants you the patienc so you can get through these hard days. I will see you on Tuesday azizam. Much love

Dr. George Klingzing

October 28, 2013

Therese: I was deeply moved by the service in Pittsburgh for Abdi. Such love and friendship could be felt in the room. It was an honor for me to be with you all for a few minutes. When you have time drop me a line and we can discuss further the process for the scholarship in Abdi's name. With kindest regards,

Shrikant & Anu

October 28, 2013

Dear Therese...We will miss dear Abdi so much. He is now at peace and with the Lord who loves him too. Both of you went through a lifetime of challenges in the past few years. We love you too... Please take care.

Carolyn Williams

October 28, 2013

You have been in my prayers all the while. I have Tuesday on my calendar. He was the sweetest most caring person. I know it's hard to loose your best friend and the love of your life. You both have endured more than your share of trials and tribulations. Dear friend I can truthfully say you enjoyed a kind of love that others aspire to have. I hope you have felt the love and support that have been sent your way, especially this last week. See you on Tuesday.

John Verdeaux

October 28, 2013

Therese that is devastating news. I know life was a battle for him these past few years. Fortunately he is resting well in Heaven. We will be praying for you.

Judy & Keith Rice

October 28, 2013

Keith and I know that Abdi fought this disease as hard and long as he could and you were right there with him through it all. An so it had been your battle too. We know you will miss him and so wish that things could have turned out differently. But please know that he is no longer in pain. I hope as you rest and try to adjust to a different life yourself, you will be comforted in remembering the life you shared with Abdi before he was sick and that those thoughts of love, fun, and laughter will surround you like a warm blanket. Thinking of both you and Abdi

Emily

October 28, 2013

Hey Therese. Vickie had shared with me. I am continuing to pray for God to comfort in the only way He can during this time. I love you. Emily

Dr. Qaiser Bashir

October 28, 2013

Dearest Therese, I am so sorry for the delayed response. I have just come back to the office.

I am very sorry to hear this. You and Abby were like family members of our team. I am so glad we got to know you and Abby. I hope you find strength and peace in this very difficult time.

Regards,
QB

LINDA MCGEORGE

October 28, 2013

THERESE,
I AM SO SORRY TO HEAR ABOUT ABDI I WILL MISS HIS SWEET SMILE AT TWIN CITY NISSAN I LOVED YOU BOTH SO MUCH MY PRAYERS WILL BE WITH YOU

Neal Durfee

October 28, 2013

Abdi was such a pleasure to work with and had such a great sense of humor. Although I had not worked with him near the length of time as most of his other coworkers, I enjoyed working with him and had an appreciation for his approach to his career and his close relationships with his coworkers. He is missed.

Gina & Mike Jones

October 28, 2013

My Dear Therese having just heard of Abby's passing my heart breaks for you and your loss . I can't help but sit here and remember how special your love to each other was. It just beamed out of both of you. But know that he lives in side that big heart of yours . Please call if you need anything . My love and thoughts are with you .

Shannon Bridges

October 27, 2013

Dear Therese, I am so sorry for your loss. Abdi was truly a special person and friend. He was always a joy to be around. I enjoyed working with him at ORNL. I remember a business trip to Las Vegas years ago with you, Abdi and my son, Greg. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

Shannon Bridges

October 26, 2013

Dear Therese....We will miss our dear Abdi so much. He is now at peace and with the Lord who loves him too. Both of you went through a lifetime of challenges in the past few years. We love you and please take care of yourself.

October 26, 2013

Oh Therese I am so sorry!!! Shedding tears of sorrow for your loss but rejoicing that his body is now healthy and whole in the presence of Jesus!

Jackie

October 26, 2013

Oh my sweet Therese. I am so sorry. You have been on my mind so strongly the last 2 weeks and I almost texted you many times. I am so sorry I didn't but please know you are constantly in my thoughts

Marta Ceballos

October 26, 2013

Oh my Gosh I am so sorry to hear that. How are you doing? You are in my prayers always.

Dr. Ron & Ann Hrebinko

October 26, 2013

I am very sorry to hear that, Therese. He was a wonderful man! With God, in eternity now. All our love to you.

Kristi, Lloyd and Kiley Newcomb

October 26, 2013

Oh I am so sorry. I know how much you two loved each other. Please if there is anything I can do please, please, please let me know. I am here for you and I am a great listener. I love you and will be praying for you.

October 26, 2013

Oh no!!! I am so sorry. My heart breaks for you. He fought so hard for so long. Praying for peace, comfort and understanding. Wish I could hug your beautiful self. I love you.

Pam Young, **friend and patient at MDA

October 26, 2013

I cannot believe this. I thought things were going well for you two. I am so very, very sorry. Please know that my heart is breaking for you right now. No words can express the true loss I know you feel. When you are able, I would like very much to meet you sometime just to talk and share....maybe somewhere in between Knoxville and Jasper. Love to you.

Loni Savage, RN @ MDA

October 26, 2013

I can't even imagine the pain and heart sickness you must be feeling now. I love you both so much and you will forever be a part of my heart and will affect my practice of nursing. Abby was a huge reason I was able to give strength and hope to the patients I took care of. You my sweet girl continue to be an example of gracious love and gratitude for life and its awesomeness. Please know there wasn't a single day you and Abby weren't in my thoughts. I love you and I hope to talk with you soon if you feel okay with that.

Ronald Fiskum

October 26, 2013

Therese, We are very sorry to hear about Abdi. He was s good friend and always had a smile on his face. It was good knowing him and working with him at ORNL. Rose and I talk about the both of you often and it would be nice to have lived closer. God Bless Abdi and may he rest in peace.

April Sharpe

October 26, 2013

Oh, Therese. My heart is just breaking. I love you and am praying for you. The love you two shared is not often found here on Earth. May
you feel the peace only God can give. XOXO

Kristy Newcomb

October 25, 2013

I am sorry for what you must be going thru. Roller Derby and I love you so very much. If you need anything please let me know. Praying for God to give you and the family comfort during this time of sadness. His sweet smile will be missed. He will be forever in our heart. Love you sweet friend

Som Shrestha

October 25, 2013

We miss his humor and the ever smiling face. He was very friendly and always willing to help. I learned a lot from him. He will remain in my memories for ever.

Som Shrestha

Dr. Cyrus Riahinez

October 25, 2013

Dear Ms. Zaltash,



It was with great sadness that I received the e-mail about the loss of your husband Dr. Zaltash on Sunday. We have lost a very dear friend and you are at a very difficult time. With time and courage, you will sail through these rough days. The words cannot express the depth of my sorrow over this tragedy. I know that he was so special to you and I know how much you loved him and I believe that Allah loved him even more. He was a special man and scientist. I was so lucky to have him as supervisor at ORNL in 2004 and 2005.



Please be strong for the sake of the others who also love you. May his soul enlighten the garden of paradise. In meantime, know that I'll be praying for you and your family. If there is anything I can do, please don't hesitate to contact me.



I would like to thank Dr. Ravandi for all he has done for Dr. Zaltash in Houston, TX. May Allah rewards him for his great work. I have tried to visit Abdi jun many times at hospital. He was in isolation and it was not possible. I will attend at memorial services on next Tuesday at 6:30 PM in Knoxville, TN.


With deepest sympathy,

Megan Galbraith

October 24, 2013

Oh Therese, I am sooo sorry ? I can't even imagine what you guys are going through. That just breaks my heart. We will make sure that they are allowed in your apartment. Please, please let me know if there is absolutely anything that we can do for you in the mean time. You all will be in my prayers

Best regards,
Megan Galbraith
Community Leasing Consultant | Greystone Summit Apartments

Sima Nafissi

October 24, 2013

Dear Therese,
I am very sad, Abdi was my childhood friend and as a brother for me. There is no word to bring you consolation, I just want to tell you are in my thoughts.
Love,
Sima

Kaveh Khalili

October 24, 2013

Dear Therese, Please accept our condolences....Abdi is in our hearts and minds. May he now rest in Peace. Love Kaveh and Mahasty

Vikas Patniak

October 24, 2013

Dearest Therese: We heard the news this morning. We are so sorry. We remember his gentle smile and even gentler personality. We feel a great sense of loss even thought we haven't been in touch for so long. We pray for your strength. Please know that you are continuously in our thoughts. We will try calling you again soon.
Love, Vikas and Ayesha

Marina Petrossian

October 24, 2013

My Dear Angel, Therese,
I know you must be getting hundreds of emails. Just wanted you to know that the memory I have from Abdi, which goes back to over 40 years, will always remain a treasure for me. I love you just as I loved him. I am very sorry for his loss but I know he is in peace.
Take good care and I hope we can remain in touch forever.
Marina Petrossian

Kathy Zand

October 24, 2013

Dear Therese,

I just saw Arsalan's posting on FB about Abdi. You don't know how sorry I am and how much my heart goes out to you and all your families and friends. After such a struggle to keep him around, it must have been time for Abdi to say goodbye to this physical form of existance.
My deepest condeolences to you all. I know how much you loved and cared for him and I am sure he is so thankful for having met you in this life.

Please know that one mroe person is thinking of you and his family during this hardship.
May you have strength and faith to go through this...

Megan Cornelison

October 24, 2013

Mrs. Zaltash,
I am so sorry to hear this news. Your family has been in my thoughts and prayers since Kate texted me on Friday. Your husband's battle was truly heroic and your strength as a family is both admirable and absolutely unique. He touched the lives of everyone around him, especially all of us, with his positive spirit and uplifting presence. He was a truly special man, and you are a truly special woman, and I am so sorry for your loss. Please extend my most heartfelt sympathy to your family and let me know if there is anything at all that you need.

With sincerest sympathy,
Megan

Farhad Ravandi

October 24, 2013

Dear Ms. Zaltash,
I am extremely sorry to hear this news. We all agree that Abby, with your unwavering support, fought courageously and we all are very grateful to have had a chance to know you both and participate in your courageous battle.
With my sincere regards and best wishes,
Dr. Farhad Ravandi

vivian monticello

October 24, 2013

I am so sorry to hear of your loss. I am truly privileged to have known such a gentleman with outstanding courage and determination to fight his illness. And he was truly blessed to have your inspiring presence and loving support throughout his journey. I will miss him.
Take care.

Courtney Cameron from Walgreens

October 23, 2013

Therese, I just saw! I am so sorry for your loss! You all are wonderful and I love you both! You are in my prayers!

October 23, 2013

Therese, I am so sorry for your loss. Abdi was such a wonderful person and friend.

October 23, 2013

Dear Therese,

We are so sorry to hear about Abdi's passing. He fought as hard as anybody can, with you always at his side. We admire your courage and perseverance. We will always remember Abdi as a wonderful friend. You are always in our thoughts,

Love,

Gershon, Lilly, Daphna and Iris Grossman

Pedro Otaduy

October 22, 2013

Therese: We are soooo... sorry for our loss. Abdi's greatness of mind and spirit showed us the way to reconcile success in life and humility, misfortune and the joy of living.
He will be missed!!!
A big hug for you with all our love. We appreciate the loving care you provided to Abdi, share your pain and wish to be able to help you in the near future. Please count on us.
Maria & Pedro

Kate Villatuya

October 22, 2013

My Daddy, I will always be your "Baby Kate". Thank you for your unconditional love. XOXO WWPP Infinity Buckets

Tiffiany McCarty

October 22, 2013

Therese,
We are so sorry for your loss. He fought a good fight with such courage & a sweet spirit. I know your heart is breaking. May you find comfort in memories. So thankful to have you & Abdi as part of our lives. You're in our thoughts & prayers.
With Love,
Dan, Tiffiany & Meghan

Therese Zaltash

October 21, 2013

My beloved Abby,I will never forget all of the love you continually showered me with. You my love were true perfection, I love you to Venus and back.

October 21, 2013

Therese, so sorry to hear of this great loss. I'm so sorry that we never got to meet in person but it has been a privilege to have been able to provide services for Dr Zaltash. You and your family are in out thoughts and prayers.

Debra Speelman, RN and staff at Coram Specialty Infusion Services.

Allison Perritt

October 21, 2013

Therese, please know that I have you and your family in my prayers. Abdi was one of the kindest, most genuine people I had ever met and my heart is breaking for you because of the deep love you two shared for each other. Abdi was truly loved by all those who met him. I'm so very sorry to hear of this sad news. Prayers and love to you sweet Therese during this very difficult time.

Former ORNL Co-worker

Evelyn Baskin

October 21, 2013

Therese,
I pray that God will wrap His loving and commpassionate arms around you to support and encourage you. May God's peace and joy flood your mind and heart. Praying for God's best for you and the family.

Padmaja Kisari

October 21, 2013

Abdi was a great achiever yet very calm, kind and humble. He was wonderful person with a great sense of humor. He will be missed greatly. May God provide strength and comfort to his near and dear ones at this time.

Bo Shen

October 21, 2013

The kind and gentle person Abdi was, I'm sure the one who made him, realized how special he was. He belongs to a place that is kind, a place that is away from all the hassles of this world. May his spirit experience celestial peace and heavenly bliss.

Gwen Scudder

October 21, 2013

Abdi had a kind and warm spirit. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.

Omar Abdelaziz

October 21, 2013

Therese,
Please accept our heartfelt condolences on the loss of Abdi. He was a great friend and colleague, we will miss him greatly.

Sincerely,
Omar Abdelaziz & Gannate Khowailed

Teresa Nichols

October 21, 2013

Abdi:

You were such a sweet man and outstanding researcher. I will miss you much!

Theresa and family, you are in my continued thoughts and prayers. May you feel God's comforting arms around you today, tomorrow, and always.

Teresa Nichols
ORNL

Steve Fischer

October 21, 2013

Therese, Karen and I pray that the love of your friends and family help you in this time of grief. Abdi was a wonderful man who brightened many lives. I pray that as your grief lessens your heart is warmed by many memories of the good times and the love that you and Abdi shared.

Showing 1 - 76 of 76 results

Make a Donation
in ABDI ZALTASH's name

Memorial Events
for ABDI ZALTASH

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

How to support ABDI's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor ABDI ZALTASH's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more