Maravital E. Eapen "Mat"

M.E. Eapen (Mat), 91, of Syracuse, NY passed away on Sunday, January 21, 2018 at Upstate Community General Hospital with loving family by his side. He was born on December 30, 1926 in India, the son of the late Thottukadavil and Aleyamma Eapen. He worked in the Royal Indian Navy and served in World War II. He accepted the Lord Jesus Christ at the age of 21 as his personal Savior (70 years ago), and lived in terms of eternity since then. He had a calling in his life to serve the Lord. From a young age learning and constantly walking close to the Lord, he followed God's calling in his life.

Hebrew 10:38 "The just shall live by faith." He truly lived this out in his own life. He was an example and role model as he walked in faith in various areas of his life. In 1951, M.E. Eapen resigned from the Royal Indian Navy and became a printer and publisher for Gospel Literature Services (GLS) in Bombay, India for the great advancement of God's kingdom on earth. He served as a trustee on various boards for multiple Christian mission organizations, as well as supported various missionaries. He was also part of the Gideon International. He was an active member of International Assembly and Kerala Christian Bible Study and various prayer group in Syracuse. He also founded a Bible study group at his senior residential place. As the manager of Gospel Literature Services, he would be on his knees looking to the Lord for the provision needed to pay the 80 employees and other administrative costs and the Lord provided (Philippians 4:19). He was more familiar with the knee pad than the iPad. He was generous in giving to others even when he did not have much. He loved Jesus Christ who is the Savior of the world and he wanted the world to know that the only way to heaven is through a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. GLS was founded by Durham in 1946. In his position, as General Manager of the GLS press, He travelled to many countries around the world. The many Christian books and tracks that he published had a great impact on people around the world (Hebrews 11:4).

Eapen faithfully kept in touch with so many family and friends calling them regularly. He mentored and encouraged many. He loved and knew God's word well. He had so much of the scripture in his memory. He was an avid reader, enjoyed swimming whether pool or ocean, chess player, and a world traveler. He enjoyed learning something new every day. He attended high school to acquire knowledge and understanding of the American Education System. In June 2004, he graduated with Honors at the age of 83. He wanted to be resourceful so that he could assist his grandchildren in various subject matters. Lastly, he kept up with the times as they changed for example, he used smartphones, tablets and social media to keep up with his grandchildren.

He lived a long and blessed life. Even till his last day he went to church and kept his focus on the Lord. His life was portrayed by his love for his Savior Jesus Christ and for the people he encountered which included family, friends and/or the cashier at Aldi. He was faithful to his Savior until the end. Now he is rejoicing in the presence of the Lord whom he loved and served faithfully.

M.E. Eapen is survived by his son, Dr. John T. Eapen (Sudha), daughter Hannah Stephenson (George), daughter-in-law Dr. Neena Eapen (late son Benjamin). Grandchildren; Hephzibah, Zebidah, Paul, Nathan, Anisha, Siblings; T.E.George, T.E. Cherian, and Annamma Varghese.

He was predeceased by his children; George and Benjamin Eapen, Elizabeth Brooks, his siblings; Dr. T.E. Koshy, T.E. Abraham and Mariamma Chandy.

Mat Eapen always exemplified the scripture in life, as he was taken home to Glory on 1/21/18 "For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain." Philippians 1:21 KJV.

Viewing will be held on Sunday, January 28, 2018 from 2-5pm at New Comer Cremations & Funerals, 705 N. Main St., N. Syracuse. Funeral services will be held on Monday, January 29, 2018 starting 10am at International Assembly, 4274 Lafayette Rd. Jamesville NY 13078.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be sent to International Assembly, 4274 Lafayette Rd. Jamesville NY 13078.

To leave a special message for the family please visit www.NewcomerSyracuse.com