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From:
Robin Callahan
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Tuesday, April 14, 2020
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Submitted to Robin Callahan by Dr. Tom Craig:
Robin
I first knew Omran many years ago when they were combining departments. Some students mentioned some things he was teaching and I thought they did not fit well into what I was attempting to teach, so I visited him.
Over the years we each found things where we did not agree with each other, but we could talk about it and understand where the other was coming from. That really helped me and I appreciated the help he rendered.
During the years we were colleagues I often had graduate students or visiting faculty members from North Africa or the Middle East. It was wonderful to have them interact with Omran about things I did not truly understand and he was the local point of information for a number of persons.
A couple of weeks ago I was visiting with a former student and mentioned his passing and the former student, neither Muslim, African, nor Middle Eastern, told me that a few months ago he had the opportunity to visit with Omran for more than an hour and how much he enjoyed it and how it reminded him of the interactions that he and other students had with him. Omran could listen to others and help them, not by reminding them how much he KNEW, but how much he CARED. He was a wonderful person and I hope when I grow up I can be like him.
Tom Craig
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From:
Jane Welsh
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Sunday, April 12, 2020
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Our dear friend Omran, we will always remember your kindness over the last 30 years. You asked us to think of you as a brother and that you were always there for us. This was such a comfort and we knew we could rely on you. You had such a profound impact on so many students, staff and faculty. Know that we love you. Jane, Colin, James and Robert
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From:
Walter Cook
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Saturday, April 11, 2020
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I have known Tawfik for 6 years. In the old VMS building his office was next to mine. We would regularly visit, sometime over tea & coffee (with occasional special treats). He was always very positive. He was simply the nicest person I think I've ever met. He would give my family and me special Egyptian or other exotic dishes he had made (his eggplant dip was outstanding) and we would share Portugese sweet bread, German stollen and our farm grown eggs with him. It was truly special.
He also helped me professionally a great deal. He was always happy to show me teaching tools and techniques (including navigating our cumbersome educational programs). I will really miss his kindness, his positive attitude and his sense of humor. It was an honor to be his friend.
Walt
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From:
Ellen Collisson
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Sunday, April 5, 2020
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Tawfik was one of the first friends I met at Texas A&M. My years in College Station were enriched by our friendship. I will never forget the lovely meals we shared and the social events. We even went dancing a few times. However, he had a tendency to step on your feet and I can tell you that hurt. But his heart was in it. He was a great cook and had great taste in restaurants.
I regret not keeping in touch more.
Love you Tawfik. Rest in Peace.
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