Bemnet "Gakii" Deresse was born on November 21, 1997, in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, to his loving parents, Aster Bekele and Yeshewalul Deresse. He grew up alongside his brother, Dagim, and cousins—Abeselom, Mekdim, Robel, Mathiwos, and Pamela—who were more like siblings than cousins. Raised in a large family surrounded by grandparents, aunts, and uncles who guided him with love, laughter, and discipline, Gakii's childhood was filled with warmth and joy.

From a young age, he showed curiosity and creativity. He loved soccer and basketball, drawing, gaming, and making people laugh. He enjoyed anime and science fiction, fascinated by big ideas and imaginative worlds. At his heart, however, was a passion for helping others—whether through healthcare, technology, or his dream of one day returning to Ethiopia to contribute to the well-being of his people.

Gakii earned dual Bachelor of Science degrees in Biomedical Engineering and Biochemistry from the University of Cincinnati, as well as an Associate of Science in Biology from Cincinnati State. He was named to the Dean's List and recognized as a member of Phi Theta Kappa Honors Society. He recently began work as a Quality Engineer at Whipmix Corporation in Louisville, Kentucky, and had ambitious plans to pursue graduate studies, a PhD, and a career leading biomedical engineering research.

During his academic career, Gakii made meaningful contributions through his Engineering Capstone project. He worked with High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) technology, developing improved calibration systems to make cancer treatments safer and more effective. He also studied the use of nanoparticles to enhance therapeutic applications, analyzing their behavior in ultrasound-based treatments. These research experiences not only deepened his knowledge but confirmed his readiness for advanced graduate-level study.

Despite his many achievements, it was his kindness, humility, and faith that left the deepest impression. A story from his Sunday School days captures his heart perfectly: when asked what he thought death was, he said simply, "It's like closing your eyes for a while and then opening them again." His words reflected a faith that was hopeful, fearless, and rooted in God's promises.

Though his life was cut short, Gakii lived with purpose, joy, and love. He was a son, brother, cousin, and friend who brought light to everyone around him. His life was short, but sweet—and his dreams and faith continue to inspire us. May his memory be a blessing, and may we carry forward the love, curiosity, and devotion that guided him.

Service is from 9:00 am until 12:00 pm, on  Saturday, September 13, 2025, at the M.Selam Kidanemihret Ethiopian Orthodox Church, 1633 Marlowe, Cincinnati  (45224). Friends and family will gather to share memories, find solace in one another's company, and honor the legacy he leaves behind.

Interment will follow at Spring Grove Cemetery, 4521 Spring Grove Avenue, Cincinnati, Ohio 45232 at 12:30pm.

The family will gather back at M.Selam Kidanemihret Ethiopian Orthodox Church, 1633 Marlowe, Cincinnati  (45224) at 2:00pm for repast.

To share a memory of  Bemnet or leave a special message for the  Deresse family, please click the "Tribute Wall" tab above and to the right, enter the information, and click "Save Post."

Walker Funeral Home and Crematory  is caring for the Deresse family during this difficult time.  Please call 513.251.6200 or visit www.HerbWalker.com for additional information.