Abdul K Westbrook

Thu 4/18/2024 12:44 PM Abdul came into this world at the old Clarkson Hospital and took his last breath before the sun rose on Friday, April 12, 2024 at Clarkson Tower at the University of Nebraska Medical Center. Abdul was born on March 18, 1975, in Omaha Nebraska. He was the “middle child” of Otis and Deloise Baker-Westbrook. Abdul confessed a belief in Christ at an early age and was baptized at the Church of the Living God (CWFF) Temple #33 under the leadership of the late Bishop Luke C. Nichols. Abdul began his spiritual journey by participating in youth activities, singing in the kid, youth, and sanctuary choir. Abdul ultimately became well known in the community for his melodious voice after singing the song Like an Eagle during his ceremonial promotion to Lewis and Clark Middle School.  Abdul was always beating on things around the house so his father decided to purchase him a set of drums. Although Abdul’s constant banging on the drums, the frequent purchasing of new drum heads, and taking him for drum lessons drove his sisters and mom crazy, Abdul became an excellent percussionist, ultimately earning him the number one drummer spot for the church. This meant he was playing the drums at outside church events thoughout the community. The highlight of his drumming career came when he was able to earn money playing for several concerts at the Omaha Arts Center. Abdul was also known for his acting abilities. He participated in church plays and with the Omaha Chapter of the Gospel Music Workshop of America. He was crowned “Prince” of the Youth Division.  Abdul grew up in Omaha and attended elementary, middle, and high school in the OPS System. He graduated from South High School in 1993 with honors and went on to attend Iowa State University on scholarship, majoring in Mechanical Engineering. However, he found the engineering discipline boring and later changed his major to Sports Management. While at Iowa State, Abdul served as Choir Director for the Campus Gospel Choir. He was affectionately called “CD” by choir members and friends. Abdul also became a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity. After completing an internship at Linwood YMCA in Kansas City, Missouri and graduating from Iowa State University, Abdul accepted full time employment with Linwood YMCA of Greater Kansas City.  Abdul loved playing football and basketball. He gave up playing football following knee surgery. However, his love for basketball never wavered. As a recognized need in the Greater Kansas City Community to keep at-risk youth engaged in community rather than illegal activity, Abdul started a non-profit basketball team for middle school boys under the name of “Champs Sports”. His team participated in tournaments not only in the Greater Kansas City Area, but in other cities and states as well. He has left his love for basketball, and love of music, in the hands of his son, Khalil. Abdul relocated back to Omaha in the fall of 2013 where he remained until his death. Abdul was employed with G. T. Midwest as a Hydraulics Team Member. Abdul often discussed his energy and satisfaction working for G. T. Midwest. He worked for G. T. Midwest until his health did not permit him to do so. Abdul had the type of personality that connected and immediately drew people into his circle. Despite facing many life challenges, his faith in God never wavered. His last song, of which his mother and family sang with him was The Promise by the Mississippi Mass Choir. Although weak in body, his voice was as melodious as ever. His family and friends will miss Abdul’s uncanny and warm spirit and his tireless efforts to improve the quality of his life and those who were in his inner circle. He leaves to cherish his memory his parents, Otis Gene and Deloise Westbrook-Springer (Charles); Renee Newman-Westbrook, Zoey Brandmair; sons, Khalil Westbrook-Grant (Melissa) and Matthew Brandmair; daughters, Michyla Westbrook-Samuels, A’Marie Westbrook, and Justyce J. Westbrook; brothers, Otha Westbrook, Jr., and Ja’Shawn Ward, Jr.; sisters, Kasharri Westbrook Allen (Travie), Ebony Westbrook Smith and Donna Green; grandchildren, Malachi Otis and Kamden Isaiah Westbrook; uncles, Rev. Preston Baker (Lena), Terry Westbrook, and Anthony Green; aunts, Carrie Baker, Lloraine Baker, and Mary Baker; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Abdul K Westbrook, please visit our floral store.