Hammoud, who hailed from the Lebanese village of Tebnine, never surrendered easily. He was an extraordinary man who lived a full life and excelled in every aspect and at all levels. 

Hammoud, the oldest son of a southern farmer, as he used to proudly describe his father, reached for the stars. He was fearless and stood head-to-head against powerful leaders in business and politics. He was the kind of tough man you wanted on your side in a battle.

Although he didn’t receive a college degree, he was a well-educated man— well-informed with a vision and a mission. 

Throughout his life, he assumed leadership positions, rose to the top and asserted himself, earning the respect of his foes even before that of his friends.

Although Hammoud’s life wasn’t easy, it was a remarkable journey. In Lebanon, economic circumstances forced him to seek a career in physical education at a local public school in Tebnine. During his tenure as a gym teacher, he made history. Three of his students won national championships in various sports. 

Soon after, he asserted his leadership in his town. He created a social club to organize local youths and engage them socially and later politically. 

In 1975, civil war broke out and devastated his country. Hammoud took it upon himself to preserve his town and protect his people. He worked diligently with warring factions, which brought him respect from all parties. He mastered the political game and became a mover and a shaker as his country was roiling in strife. 

Hammoud eventually left Lebanon to Saudi Arabia to seek a new career and support his family. He became a translator for a large French company that had contracts with the Saudi Defense Ministry, where his leadership and exceptional skills shined once more. He rose to become the head of the translation division of the French giant.  Later on, he took another career path in the world of journalism, making history on the pages of a leading Saudi national publication. He quickly gained the respect and admiration of the top editors.

Hammoud’s love for his country brought him back to Lebanon. However, the civil war took its toll on him. Hammoud was principled and loyal to his friends who were marginalized by the changing political landscape. He stood by them and did not compromise his beliefs.

In the mid 1980’s, he emigrated with his family to the United States. His journey in the land of “Uncle Sam” wasn’t easy, but he turned it into a remarkable one with his determination, dedication and discipline. 

Mustapha Al-Abed Hammoud, the teacher, the translator, the journalist and the politician took on a different challenge in a foreign land. However, he managed to shine brightly in this new world. 

Arriving with little money and a great deal of hope, he started his final stretch from scratch. Being a shrewd, street-smart, well-rounded, a life-experienced realist and a born leader, he achieved the unachievable.

After a period of struggle with twists and turns, he was able to realize the American Dream. This year, Crain’s Detroit Business featured Hammoud and his family as one of the leading stories in their special edition celebrating immigrants, “The American Dreamers.” 

Hammoud focused on raising a family of achievers. In this respect, he left a legacy that we can all be proud of. His six children have reached honorable positions academically and professionally. They are successful leaders in their respective fields. They have become recognized lawyers, engineers, doctors and businesspersons.

Mustapha Hammoud was a man of determination, loyalty and perseverance. He was not only a great father, grandfather and loving husband, but an exceptional giver, a loyal friend, and a strong leader of rare qualities. He will be greatly missed. 

His legacy lives on.