Abed Jaouni

1946 - 2022

Abdur (Abed) Rahim Jaouni passed away on the morning of October 6, 2022 in El Cerrito, California. He was 76 years old. Born in old town Jerusalem in January 1946, Abed’s family relocated to Kuwait in 1959. From an early age, Abed exhibited a strong and curious intellect and was the youngest ever to graduate from his secondary school with honors in 1963. Abed continued to garner scholarships and distinctions throughout his educational life.  He received his first Master’s degree from American University in Beirut Lebanon in 1969. Following graduation, Abed worked at the university until he was granted a scholarship to study in the United States. He continued his graduate studies at the University of California, Berkeley where he received his 2nd Master’s degree in Geology in 1975 under the guidance of Prof. Garniss Curtis. Abed remained on or near the UC Berkeley campus for the remainder of his life, initially working with UCB Geology Department and then, for the last 29 years, at the Berkeley Geochronology Center (BGC). 

Abed was a highly skilled sample preparator whose work was foundational to literally thousands of samples dated at BGC. He mentored dozens of students, postdocs and visitors in the various techniques that he employed. Thus Abed’s tradecraft was spread to many labs worldwide.

Abed was exceptional at his work and all those who worked beside him knew him to be a passionate and caring person. When he wasn’t working, Abed could often be found in cafes arguing about politics, keeping up with the local happenings, or listening to live music. With his wry wit and infectious laugh, Abed had a gift for making people laugh. He was known for coming into a room and immediately having people in stitches. Abed had a rich social life filled with friends and was known for making friends wherever he went. Abed was a good and loyal friend to many and gave himself unsparingly to those he loved.

Abed is survived by his younger brother, Fayez Jaouni of Qatar, nephew Samir Jaouni of London, his half sister and brother Suhaila and Yousif in Germany. In addition to his family, Abed leaves behind an extended family community of friends and colleagues who love and miss him dearly.

A Celebration of Life is planned for Saturday April 29, 2023, at the Berkeley Geochronology Center campus.