Obituary of Abe Sallaj

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Abdul (Abe) Latif Hamzel Sallaj. He passed away as he wished in the comfort of his own home at the age of 86. Abe is survived by his wife, Patricia Sallaj, his son Philip (Karen), daughter Susan (Stuart) and 5 grandchildren (Lauren, Cameron, Adam, Chris & Malcolm).

Born in 1939, Abe left the country of Jordan in 1956 to pursue a civil engineering degree at New Mexico State University. He immigrated to Canada in 1965 landing in Ottawa briefly then onto Halifax where he met Patricia.   They were married in 1973 and welcomed their first child in 1974 and a second in 1977. The family relocated to Moncton in 1983 for Abe's employment. 

Abe worked for Public Works and Government Services Canada for 22 years as a civil engineer, constructing bridges and penitentiaries in Nova Scotia and New Brunswick. He had a nose for problem solving and worked the problem until he got to a workable solution. Abe's work ethic was relentless and unwavering.

Abe was committed to the goal of providing his children with a university education, teaching them to always act with integrity and instilling a strong work ethic in both of his children.  

Abe was also very proud of his younger brother, Dr. Abed Sallaj (Menheim) whom he helped support through his medical studies while Abe walked to work for six years as a professional engineer in Halifax. Abe treasured his time with his brother Menheim, sister-in-law, Randa and his four nephews (Numan, Yazan, Ayman and Zaid). 

In the past, he was known for his walks around Jones Lake with his cane, giving candies to everyone he ran into, and he always made sure he got the best deal possible, Abe’s price.  

Abe was an avid contributor to the Muslim community over decades in the city.  He helped design and build the Moncton Masjid and he created the first Muslim cemetery within the region, raising donations, securing the land, and establishing partnerships with local businesses.

Abe will be remembered for his smile, his commitment to his family, his appreciation for great food and an engrained responsibility of giving back to his community.

Funeral arrangements are under the professional care and direction of Fergusons Riverview Funeral Centre & Fergusons Crematorium, 214 Pine Glen Rd., Riverview, NB, E1B 1V6, (506-857-9544).

Online condolences and sharing of memories may be shared and expressed at

www.FergusonsRiverview.com