Abdul (affectionately known as “Abe” and “Abid”) M. Qastin, 86 of Appleton, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his loving family, on July 5, 2026. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, son, uncle, cousin, and friend to many. Known for his generous spirit, wise counsel, and passion for teaching and learning, his legacy will live on through those who knew and loved him.

The oldest of nine children, Abe was born in Basrah, Iraq on September 6, 1939, the son of Shafik and Luci (Khachaturian) Qastin. A diligent student, he graduated first in his class from the University of Baghdad, Iraq with a Bachelor of Science in Commerce and Economics in 1962 and earned a full scholarship to study in the United States. He earned his Master of Science in Business Administration, with concentrations in Cost Accounting and Marketing, from the University of Minnesota in 1966, and later completed his Ph.D. in Business Administration at Kennedy-Western University in 1996.

During his studies at the University of Minnesota, he met his future wife, Jane. Abe and Jane were married on September 17, 1966 at the St. Francis Cabrini University Church in Minneapolis, MN. Together, they celebrated nearly 60 years of marriage and made their home in Appleton, WI.

Abe was a teacher and lifelong learner whose academic career spanned more than 40 years. He served as a Professor of Accounting, Business Administration at the University of Baghdad (1967-1973) and later at Lakeland University in Sheboygan, WI (1981-2017). At Lakeland, Abe served as Associate Dean for the William Kellett School of Adult Education (1999-2008), Chair of the Professional Standard Committee, and Advisor for Students in Free Enterprise (1990-1997). His colleagues elected him for a two-year term to represent faculty on the Lakeland College Board of Trustees. In 1987, he was recognized as "Outstanding Teacher of the Year" by Lakeland's Student Government and in 1990, granted the R.K. Bemis Professorship in Business Chair. Prior to his career in academia, he worked as an engineering accountant for Honeywell Corporation in Minneapolis and as a controller for a firm in Appleton.

Grounded with the values of faith, family, and education, Abe thrived in creating a beautiful life garden. He devoted his life to his wife, children, and grandchildren. His children and grandchildren feel especially blessed to have had him as their father and grandfather.

Abe was fiercely loyal, wise, generous, brave, and resilient. He was an avid follower of the news and world affairs, with a keen interest in history, economics, stamp and coin collecting, and gardening. He enjoyed meeting friends for breakfast every Tuesday and Thursday to discuss current events.

Abe is survived and will be deeply missed by his beloved wife Jane (Bach) Qastin. They were blessed with two children: Dena (Peter) Lorenzi of Harrison, WI and Diar (Holly) Qastin of Madison, WI. He is also survived by his five grandchildren: Jane and Gabrielle Lorenzi and Samuel, Andrew, and Katherine Qastin. Abe is further survived by his brothers Yousef (Nada) Qastin and Sameer (Khitam) Kiston; his sisters Farida (George) Wartan, Amal (Nabeel) Murad, and Mona (Sameer) Savaia; and 21 nieces and nephews. He is also survived by his brothers-in-law James (Peggy) Bach and Gerald (Julie) Bach.

He was preceded in death by his parents Shafik (1980) and Luci (1993) Qastin; his brother Emmanuel (2022); and his sisters Selwa (2005) and Hanaa (2020) Qastin. He is further preceded in death by his wife's family, parents Vernon (2003) and Edna (2012) Bach, and sister-in-law Julie Bach (1977).

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 12:00 PM noon on Friday, July 17 at Holy Spirit Catholic Church (formerly Holy Angels), W2796 County Hwy KK, Appleton, WI, with Fathers Carl Schmitt and James (“Jim”) Leary concelebrating. Friends may call at the church from 10:00 AM until noon.

In lieu of flowers, Abe requested that memorials may be designated to the Capuchin Mission Association, Province of St. Joseph of the Capuchin Order.

When we think of him at his best, we will remember him tending his garden in an Oxford shirt, clipping articles from Barron’s to share with friends and family, and engaging in deep conversations — whether in his living room, on a walk, or around a table with those he loved.

The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to Abe’s medical providers and the many caregivers who supported him and his loved ones throughout his journey, bringing comfort and peace in his final days.