MAXWEL YAW OKYERE-BOATENG

FUNERAL SERVICE IN LOVING MEMORY OF THE LATE MAXWELL YAW OKYERE-BOATENG SUNRISE AUG. 1942 - SUNSET JAN. 2022 SATURDAY 26TH MARCH, 2022 Ebenezer Presbyterian Church, Woodbridge, Virginia. @ 3PM

1942 | IN LOVING MEMORY oF THE LATE MAXWELL YAW OKYERE-BOATENG | 2022 “WHEN GREAT TREES FALL” MAYA ANGELO When great trees fall, rocks on distant hills shudder, lions hunker down in tall grasses, and even elephants lumber after safety. When great trees fall in forests, small things recoil into silence, their senses eroded beyond fear. When great souls die, the air around us becomes light, rare, sterile. We breathe, briefly. Our eyes, briefly, see with a hurtful clarity. Our memory, suddenly sharpened, examines, gnaws on kind words unsaid, promised walks never taken. |2|

M A X W E L L YAWFUNERAL SERVICE FOR THE LATE OKYERE-BOATENG |3|

1942 | IN LOVING MEMORY oF THE LATE MAXWELL YAW OKYERE-BOATENG | 2022 |4|

1942 | IN LOVING MEMORY oF THE LATE MAXWELL YAW OKYERE-BOATENG | 2022 OFFICIATING MINISTERS FOR THE LATE REV. YAW NKANSAH MAXWELL YAW OKYERE-BOATENG Ebenezer Presbyterian Church AT THE EBENEZER PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH WOODBRIDGE, VIRGINIA @ 3PM PROMPT REV. SAMUEL SARPONG REV. MERCY TABI Ebenezer Presbyterian Church Victory Bible Church International RT. REV. MARK FRIMPONG REV. PRISCILLA CHINERY United Bethel Presbyterian Church Victory Bible Church International REV. DR. ROBERT HOWARD REV. PAUL G. AMPONSAH Centre Presbyterian Church Victory Bible Church International REV, LOGAN KECK REV. DANIEL SOMUAH Centre Presbyterian Church Victory Bible Church International BISHOP F. OFOSU APPIAH REV. ALFRED ARCHAMPONG All Nations Church Victory Bible Church International BISHOP ELIJAH SAFORO REV. ALBERT AYITEY ADJIN Victory Bible Church International Victory Bible Church International BISHOP OSEI TWENEBOAH REV. ROBIN ESSANDOH Victory Bible Church International Victory Bible Church International BISHOP KEVIN BARNSLEY REV. DAVID GYAWU Lighthouse Chapel International All Nations Church BISHOP JAMES NANJO REV. ERIC CLARKE Restoration City Church Faith Family Ministries International REV. TIJAY. ERIKSON AT THE ORGAN: MR . JOHN AGBOZO Victory Bible Church International |5|

1942 | IN LOVING MEMORY oF THE LATE MAXWELL YAW OKYERE-BOATENG | 2022 MTheaLxawteell Yaw Okyere-Boateng FUNERAL SERVICE PART I PART III 1. Greetings 10. Hymn: PH: # 791 2. Opening Prayer 11. Hymn: “It is well with my soul” 12. Scripture Readings 3. Opening Hymn: PH #11 13. Sermon 4. Guest Recognition 14. Offertory 5. Worship & Praise 15. Song of Thanksgiving 6. Musical Selection 16. Final Viewing 7. Biography 17. Prayer for the Bereaved Family 18. Announcements PART II - TRIBUTES 19. Closing Prayer & Benediction 20. Closing Hymn: PH #518 1. Wif e 21. Recessional Song 2. Song Ministration 3. Children 4. Sibling 5. Hymn: God Our Help In Ages Past 6. Grandchildren 7. Cousin 8. Best Friend 9. Ebenezer Presby Church |6|

1942 | IN LOVING MEMORY oF THE LATE MAXWELL YAW OKYERE-BOATENG | 2022 “Now the labourer’s task is o’er, Now the battle-day is past; Now upon the farther shore Lands the voyager at last. Father, in Thy gracious keeping Leave we now Thy servant sleeping.” |7|

1942 | IN LOVING MEMORY oF THE LATE MAXWELL YAW OKYERE-BOATENG | 2022 To the end that my glory August, 1942 at the Central Hospital, may sing praise to thee, Koforidua in the Eastern Region of And not be silent. O Ghana. His parents were Mr. Sampson Lord my God, I will give Akwasi Otchere, then a police officer thanks unto thee forever. and Madame Abena Agyekumwaa Beatrice, a trader stationed at Nkwatia- Psalm 30:12 Kwahu, both of blessed memory. Maxwell Yaw Okyere- Maxwell was the first of nine children Boateng, affectionately - six (6) boys and three (3) girls. The called Wofa Yaw, was family has been blessed that all nine born on Thursday, 6th were alive, enjoying the grace of the Lord, until the passing of Wofa Yaw on 10th Jan. 2022 - a date that will forever be remembered. |8|

1942 | IN LOVING MEMORY oF THE LATE MAXWELL YAW OKYERE-BOATENG | 2022 Maxwell started his primary education D. Little Management Education at the Nkwatia Presbyterian Primary Institute at Cambridge Massachusetts, School. Because his father believed in the US. While in the University, he that as a police officer, transfers could always made sure to engage himself disturb the school of his beloved son, he with vacation employment which was left him in Nkwatia while he traveled readily available.This enabled him to to his numerous duty stations. After be self-sufficient financially that, he his primary school, he continued his was most often support to his siblings middle school at the Presbyterian boys who were then in school. Places he boarding at Abetifi - Kwahu. In 1958, he worked during those days included attended St Peter’s Secondary School PHARCO and Kwame Nkrumah which was in the early stages of establishment by nuclear research institute. the Society of Divine Word It must be noted that after Catholic Church. In 1963 he his father retired from the completed and successfully Ghana Police service in obtained the ordinary level 1969, he was appointed the certificate. In September Chief security officer at the the same year, he gained newly established GAEC, admission to do a 1-year and Maxwell was spending pre-university Advance most of his holidays there Level in biological sciences with him. at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and After graduating from Technology in Kumasi. the University, Maxwell After the Advanced Level, he got was employed as a project admitted to the faculty of Agriculture officer with the then newly established to pursue a bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Development Bank. He Agricultural Science. With this, he was was stationed at the head office in Accra successful until completion. for a few months and then posted to Hohoe in the Volta Region, which was In 1972, he was sponsored by his a branch that had been newly opened. employer, Agricultural Development Being a bachelor at that time, he went Bank, for a postgraduate certificate to the Volta Region with two of his program in management at the Arthur youngest siblings to live with him until he got married. |9|

1942 | IN LOVING MEMORY oF THE LATE MAXWELL YAW OKYERE-BOATENG | 2022 He got married to his cracking of jokes at wonderful wife, Bertha, any gathering. He in March 1973. The two loved taking morning were a match made in walks anytime he heaven that God blessed visited his hometown. with four children. He was a member of They immensely made various community an impact in the family organizations in Accra in various ways, even up and in the Eastern until they immigrated Region. Infact, he to the US. While in the encouraged all to be US, they made sure the engaged in the affairs wellbeing of the family of the community in was paramount. While which they belong. Maxwell and his family were in Ghana, he was Born into a family of very active and involved Presbyterian Church in the upbringing of members, Maxwell was their children, and in an astounded worshi- their various schools. per of the church and He served on the Board has contributed im- of Directors at St. Peters mensely to the Ramsay Secondary School and Presby-terian Church St. Mary’s Secondary at Nkwatia-Kwahu and School respectively. Sakaman, Odokor. No- tably on his birthdays he Maxwell had interest is well remembered for in lawn tennis and his cash donations and therefore was often Thanksgiving offerings. at the tennis courts at all stations he worked. With his status as a senior banker, he was seen in the company of heads of the department / organization. He was known for his | 10 |

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1942 | IN LOVING MEMORY oF THE LATE MAXWELL YAW OKYERE-BOATENG | 2022 FA R E W E L L T O M Y D E A R HUSBAND YAW OKYERE-BOATENG “Those we love don’t go away, they walk beside us everyday, unseen, unheard but always near, still loved, still missed and very dear” | 12 |

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1942 | IN LOVING MEMORY oF THE LATE MAXWELL YAW OKYERE-BOATENG | 2022 TRIBUTE FROM THE WIDOW Are you all right? Is many specialists. This was a man who your husband all right? had never been sick or had any major Is your child all right? health problems since 1973. He was Everything is alright diagnosed with cancer in 2014 but was she said, miraculously healed. 2nd Kings 4:26. The last two years of our lives have been very challenging but, thank God for That was the fate of a mother where we find ourselves. Every medical whose child had died and was supply we needed for him was provided. running to tell Elisha who I thank God for our children and their prayed for her to conceive spouses around us and everyone who that child. We all know how the story helped in taking care of him. God knows ended. The dead child came back to life the love and tender care we give him. by the power of God through Elisha. We laughed together when things were Why am I saying this? I am saying this good and we cried together when the because of my faith in God. My children, pain was unbearable. friends and loved ones were praying that my husband gets better. We were married traditionally in March 1973. It was our greatest honor when \"I vividly remember the day My love our children planned a surprise western told me that he felt sick listening to Christian wedding for us 8yrs ago. We his body.\" It was in October 2019. We were overjoyed to have our oldest son, a immediately made an appointment to Reverend, officiate that ceremony. God see his doctor who referred him to see blessed us with 48 years and 10 months of good life together. Your work with A.D.B. took us to many places. Things were not all the time | 14 |

1942 | IN LOVING MEMORY oF THE LATE MAXWELL YAW OKYERE-BOATENG | 2022 easy, as even roses have thorns but, with I'm grateful to say we raised four great Christ in the vessel we always smiled kids Kwaku, Kwabena, Abena A and at the storms. We made it thus far Abena K in the fear and love of the because the good Lord gave us strength Lord. Your niece Stella and my nephew and grace. We immigrated here to the Nana Sefa. They have all grown to US after about 25 years of marriage. be very responsible, highly educated We settled in Virginia before moving professionals and ultimately, God recently to North Carolina. fearing. Our being strict in raising the children gained us the name, Papa and We were blessed with four children, Mummy Gyam. 11 grandchildren and counting. Oh, how I prayed to God to heal you, so you My love made lots of friends wherever can welcome our first grandson after we went and also kept up with his graduation from the US Air Force. Your childhood friends. He'll be remembered grandkids are crying uncontrollably for the numerous jokes he told. I never because they miss you. The little ones understood most of those jokes but who were unable to visit because they those he told knew what he was talking were underage are devastated. about. | 15 |

1942 | IN LOVING MEMORY oF THE LATE MAXWELL YAW OKYERE-BOATENG | 2022 I cannot imagine you through. That was passed through”. It is life without you. my prayer even when I well. I enjoyed every knew you were slowly day spent with slipping away. We held I conclude with a stanza you. You can onto you until your last of a hymn that says, Just attest to how we breath singing, crying as I am - of that free love, were praying and giving praises to God The breath, length, depth to God for His for a life well lived. What and height to prove, Here healing power a blessing it was to see for a season, then above and how we our children serve you - O Lamb of God, I come! believed that it communion at the very was just a matter end. You gave me the best of of time for your life and I thank you. Life total healing. Oh, how I remember you will surely not be the telling me “remember same without you. Your Even when the prognosis when I’m not here, I’m eagerness to always do was not good, we still with the Lord. Remember something new for me had faith that the Lord that I’m no longer in was the best. I will only who raised Lazarus from pain. Remember that have to cope and adjust the dead will also see I’m walking on golden but, your love for me will streets, hand-in-hand forever be memorialized with Jesus. Remember in my heart. I’ll forever that this world is not be your Asantewaa, and my home and that I just you be my Sugar P. | 16 |

1942 | IN LOVING MEMORY oF THE LATE MAXWELL YAW OKYERE-BOATENG | 2022 I’ll cherish you forever and our adventure through life. I miss holding your hand and singing to you, your favorite hymn of all times; s3 me ho tew yiye aa, Meda Nyame ase. Dayie medofo pa. I miss you so so much. My Love, with Jesus, it is well with my soul. Rest in peace Sweetheart. Rest in peace Guy Lumpi. May the Lord be with you until we meet again. Sleep well my love until we meet again. Dayie medofo pa. Love you too much. ~Bertha | 17 |

1942 | IN LOVING MEMORY oF THE LATE MAXWELL YAW OKYERE-BOATENG | 2022 TRIBUTE BY CHILDREN TRIBUTE BY KWAKU OKYERE-BOATENG To be absent from the Daddy was very simple and contented Body is to be Present man. He was selfless and helpful to so many people in diverse ways. These with the Lord’: qualities he demonstrated has been an example, a blessing and priceless 2 Corinthians 5:7. heritage that we his blessed children live by day to day. He had a great When I was leaving the sense of humour and everybody who bedside of my father encountered him felt comfortable. on January 5th, 2022, hardly did I know Daddy had an open door to everyone that these were his final words to me. who sought help. I can boldly say that He responded with an \"Amen, Amen,\" every stranger who met Daddy felt at when I thanked him for all he did for us home. through sacrifice, hard work, and love. Right from our youth, Daddy taught My earliest memory with my father us to work hard and kept telling us was in Tamale when I was 5 years that \"hard work never killed anyone\". old. He was the Area Manager of the He always reminded us about how he Agricultural Development Bank in the pushed himself through education by Northern Region of Ghana. He had just working after school to help defray returned from the US, bringing so many the cost of his secondary and tertiary goodies, especially my small black and education. red Go Kart. I remember riding my Go I keep thinking and thinking about Kart in the living room whilst he stood Daddy’s life and my relationship with up on a stool putting up Christmas him, and all I can say is ‘thank you God’ decorations. Daddy always made the for having given me such a wonderful Christmas season such a wonderful man to be my father. If given the chance time to look forward to. to have him father me again, I would not hesitate. | 18 |

1942 | IN LOVING MEMORY oF THE LATE MAXWELL YAW OKYERE-BOATENG | 2022 The last 3 months before Daddy’s his demise. I am however persuaded passing were some of the most blessed, that despite him going through all these hilarious, and challenging times with health challenges which eventually led him. He would hardly heed to my to his passing, his Faith in Jesus Christ instructions as I helped him navigate his Saviour has given him Eternal Life through his daily routines. This is and Strength. because Daddy was very independent, meticulous in his deeds and such a Rest Well, Daddy. You have fought the gentleman. He maintained this posture good fight. I know we will meet again even till he breathed his last breath. one day in God’s eternal Presence. In spite of the fact that we knew Daddy’s end was close, it was not easy Daddy, I love you very much and miss watching him go through all the health everything about you. challenges as he progressed towards Bye for now. | 19 |

1942 | IN LOVING MEMORY oF THE LATE MAXWELL YAW OKYERE-BOATENG | 2022 TRIBUTE BY KWABENA OSEI OKYERE-BOATENG They say when you love someone, you trade part of your souls with them; and when that person dies, a part of your soul dies with them. On 10 January 2022, I finally came to understand the tears flowing down my cheeks. A part of my soul had died with you. Words cannot express the void your home going has left in my life. August 6, 1942 – January 10, 2022. The numbers 8, 6, 42 I will never forget. Countless times I heard you say it over and over again because you knew God’s hand had written it down for you. That last date I never heard you say, although we both knew those hands would write again someday for you. But that line between, God gave to you to do with what you may. For 79 years you filled that line bringing so much love, joy, friendship and companionship to many. If God was to write two words on that line for you, I’m confident it would say “Well done”. I’m most grateful to God to have enjoyed 44 years of great fatherhood, and the privilege and honor to call you Dad. Your death has left a heartache no one can heal, but your love has left a lifetime of memories no one can steal. Father’s Day will never be the same, but I will take joy knowing a little piece of my heart lives in heaven with you. Someday God’s hand will finally write again for me too, so I will be seeing you on the other side. Until then, I’ll live my life carrying on your great legacy. | 20 |

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1942 | IN LOVING MEMORY oF THE LATE MAXWELL YAW OKYERE-BOATENG | 2022 TRIBUTE BY ABENA KWARTENG “A Great Soul. It is difficult to say farewell to Dad, but I will always remain thankful for the guidance that he passed on to me.” – Maya Angelou Allow me to brag about my father, Guy Lumpi, as I lovingly called him. A man of such grace personified. A man of great wisdom. A man who charged honor and respect and, will do anything to see right done. Many people tell of his good deeds and the love he made for many. Many call him brother, uncle, grandfather and friend. For me, he was my father. | 22 |

1942 | IN LOVING MEMORY oF THE LATE MAXWELL YAW OKYERE-BOATENG | 2022 People often talk about how hilarious he liked. Oh yes, he taught me to cook he was, and the fact that you will whenever Mum was away. And often unquestionably be enthused around when I did not cook his plantains the him. Well, that was what people way he wanted, he would make sure he experienced and I must say, it was a got me out of the kitchen for damage double dose at home. control. He loved his plantain and spinach stew that my children looked He appeared very stringent when we forward to sharing on his plate. were much younger which compelled Daddy, my husband and I are indebted to you for helping us immensely in us to give him many nicknames. I, in raising our kids. He maintained a disciplined environment that most particular, got into a lot of trouble for times, our kids would rather take naming him the “Marathon Old Man”. instructions from him. We never had For many other names, he never knew to worry about how our kids got to school even until the day he left us. Huh, and back home because Guy Lumpi he also named me had it all figured out. “surgeon general”. We shared a special bond in his last He had such a unique years. He shared most of his concerns and fears with me as he battled some way of extracting of his ailments. Sometimes I feared the worst but had to maintain a position of information from being his reassurer. I prayed with him often and encouraged him of casting you without you his worries unto the Lord. Oftentimes, he was very discouraged and needed a even knowing you bit of boost. Thank God for the many relationships we have with people let out. He was very of faith, prayers were unending for my Guy Lumpi. The journey with his welcoming which attracted many of my friends. He knew most of my friends and called them friends also. It was quite interesting when I got home and he passed along messages from my friends. My friends! Yes, that was my Guy Lumpi. He will every so often call my friends just to check up on them. Such a great father. Growing up as the oldest daughter, he would regularly call me to the kitchen and teach me to cook some of the meals | 23 |

1942 | IN LOVING MEMORY oF THE LATE MAXWELL YAW OKYERE-BOATENG | 2022 health and yearning to and children thank you advise to put God first in find him the best care, enormously. You were all things. I love you too facilitated me in building a great father. In fact, much Daddy. many relationships that you were a good, good he encouraged that I and good father. Your Agya pa Da yie nurture even when he’s legacy will live on. I rise Paapa mo 3n3 y) no more. Habitually, to call you a blessed man. Krakye mu krakye he’ll have mum call me Thank you for raising Nyame nfa wo nsie yiye to confirm what had to me in a Christian home be done before agreeing and providing me with with her. I gradually spiritual liberty. Your became his confidant. In last words to me on this his last months he called earth will never leave me mum. Yes, he named me; “Abena, no more, no me after his mum. more” Daddy, I appreciate you. I Rest on well, good and thank you very much for faithful father. Yes, I will all you did. My husband heed to your wisdom and | 24 |

1942 | IN LOVING MEMORY oF THE LATE MAXWELL YAW OKYERE-BOATENG | 2022 TRIBUTE BY ABENA BOATENG DIOP Daddy dear - I me going throughout I have ever used either). can't believe the day and your energy Manchester United has this day has was inextricably linked lost their truest, most come. The to mine. Daddy, Premier loyal fan and it is my pain of you not being League mornings will not sincere hope that with here will never leave me. be the same ever again. your angel wings you For you though, I know Your love of soccer was will join me in rooting your pain and suffering ingrained in your DNA for AR5EN4L (Arsenal has ended and you are and I will always say that FC – the greatest team resting peacefully with I inherited the best case ever!). your maker. of that. You elucidated   what a “False 9” is to I miss spending my me at a very tender age mornings with you better than Nate could Daddy. I curated my explain to Ted Lasso. work arrangement to Because of you, daddy, I leave San Antonio, TX, now know the best way and be closer to you in to score a goal with a Mooresville, NC. We had header and how to read a great routine in place. the penalty directions Our morning chats kept of left-footers (not that | 25 |

1942 | IN LOVING MEMORY oF THE LATE MAXWELL YAW OKYERE-BOATENG | 2022 Daddy's sense of humor was paramount to none. His repertoire  of jokes was robust; delivering with precision, punch-line after punchline. What would keep me guessing was the appropriateness of the joke for the occasion. This made him the favorite of all my friends and close acquaintances. Even in his hospital bed, he found a way to make the mood light by cracking jokes about the other patients who were crying for help “M’adamfo, enye wo nkoaa na wo hia mmoa wo ha” meaning my friend, you’re not the only one who needs help here.   One day, I called daddy for relationship advice. Daddy did not help me choose a direction to go; however, he emphasized that I make a decision and stick to the decision. This piece of advice will forever resonate with me.   Wofa Yaw, generations-to-come will hear of your impact on every person you met, even strangers. As you were a man of true integrity, your words of wisdom  will be my motivation and inspiration  as I navigate this journey of life. Daddy, your legacy will live on, forever! Repose en paix daddy....  paix à ton âme Da yie 3 Lord, you know the hopes of the helpless. Surely, You, will hear their cries and comfort them. Psalm 10:17 | 26 |

1942 | IN LOVING MEMORY oF THE LATE MAXWELL YAW OKYERE-BOATENG | 2022 TRIBUTE BY IN-LAWS AMAZINGTRIBUTE TO AN FATHER-IN-LAW Then I heard a voice from life daddy, you touched everyone you meet heaven say, Blessed are the with your amazing personality. You have dead who die in the Lord left footprints in our hearts and the sands from now on. Yes, says of time. So, we gather together not to say the spirit, they will rest in goodbye but to celebrate and carry on your their labor, for their deeds legacy. will follow them. I remember the very first time I met you. Revelation 4.13 Even though I had been to the house several times and heard so many stories of Ogyam My heart broke when I heard (daddy’s nickname) when the time came for the news that you had a formal introduction, I was very nervous, gone home to be with the there was no need to be, Daddy had a unique Lord. I never imagined that grace to relate and have conversation with my hospital visit would be my last time everyone from all walks of life, regardless seeing you. I am still struggling with your of age, position race or background. He transition. Deep in my heart I was really welcomed me with such love into his family. hoping and praying for a miracle just to He was a graceful and sweet man, who was see your face and say good bye. God had highly considerate of others and had a big a better plan. He chose to call you home heart for everyone. Daddy was a father to and draw the curtain to a glorious and well many; He was always there for people and lived life. You lived a good and exemplary took care of their endless needs. No task was difficult for or above him, whether it was taking my car for servicing or driving me to my class which was almost a two- hour commute. | 27 |

1942 | IN LOVING MEMORY oF THE LATE MAXWELL YAW OKYERE-BOATENG | 2022 Daddy was very meticulous when the food was nice, and for us to uphold all the values at everything he did, he definitely Awura or Madam you instilled in us. Rev and I lived by the principle, if you when you wanted to correct will ensure that we all keep cannot do it excellently then me. I will miss the endless the faith and when we miss don’t do it at all. He was a stories you shared with me, your dance, we will call Niah good teacher who taught especially your wisdom and to the moves. us to always be observant sound counsel. and pay attention to detail. Rest Well Sir! You have Thank you for everything Daddy has left us an amazing made us proud! You were you did for my family and legacy of a great family, a gentleman’s gentle man helping us raise Joseph to faith, character, integrity, who rose from humble become a man. The name discipline, hard work and beginnings into the ranks of Okyere-Boateng is in this excellence. I believe with all banking elite. The noblest of land because of all the my heart that you are still men and a father named in sacrifices you made for us. alive in each of us to make a story. difference in our generation You had many names for for God’s own Glory. Your Thank you for welcoming me Awura, Madam, Maame banking grace is in the and accepting me into your Fante and Osofo Maame. Diop's, your meticulous family! It was always Eehh Osofo nature radiates through the Maame!!! when my clothes Kwarteng's and your face in DFoerebrvaerninnamy heart ! were too short, Maame Fanti Major is a constant reminder | 28 |

1942 | IN LOVING MEMORY oF THE LATE MAXWELL YAW OKYERE-BOATENG | 2022 TRIBUTE BY DAUGHTER-IN-LAW ABIGAIL OKYERE-BOATENG My father in-law, Opanyin Maxwell Yaw Okyere- Boateng was one of the most amazing people I ever had the pleasure of knowing. It is difficult at best to describe him in one word and attempt to honor, “daddy” as we affectionately called him in words. Words alone are frequently inadequate of capturing a person’s quint-essence. Daddy can be described as having hard working hands and a golden heart. He had so much love for his family and all around him, even people who met him for the first time attested to his easy going spirit and demeanor. Daddy always pushed his children and grandchildren to achieve more and each milestone was well celebrated. Although we love our daddy dearly, we could not make him stay, because God saw him getting tired and wanted him to come home and rest. Even though our hearts are broken, God has proved to us, He only takes the best. Demirifa dua daddy. | 29 |

1942 | IN LOVING MEMORY oF THE LATE MAXWELL YAW OKYERE-BOATENG | 2022 TRIBUTE TO MY LATE FATHER-IN-LAW Mr. Maxwell Okyere- Maxwell literally raised our kids since Boateng, My in-law, my my wife and I worked all the time. Your father, my friend. A departure has left me heartbroken. man with impeccable character. A man whom I loved dearly I miss you friend, I miss and who allowed me to know him very you daddy. Thank you for well. Maxwell appeared to be a very quiet everything you did for me and man when first encountered. However the family. We love you, and as you got to know him, his uncanny will love you until eternity. ability made you feel you have known each other for years. And that was a great Till we meet again my friend. \"motivation\" for me \"He had lots of love for his entire family and all those blessed YRoui crhfarriedndKand in-law enough to be in his life. He was full of knowledge while being generous with it. Some of the knowledge I received made me who I am as a man. I lived with him for years and can remember sharing laughter at each other’s expense. I made fun of him and he also made fun of me for being able to do anything that I put my mind into. Daddy was proud of me: he always bragged about me to his friends, and that was a great motivator. He had lots of love for his family; he loved his family; his children, his grandchildren, his siblings, and all those blessed enough to be in his life. | 30 |

1942 | IN LOVING MEMORY oF THE LATE MAXWELL YAW OKYERE-BOATENG | 2022 TRIBUTE BY SON-IN-LAW OUSMANE DIOP !tesen, I would be amiss to and put forth the Akan culture. I was so pretend knowing Maxwell happy to take part in the Nhuanim, and Yaw Okyere-Boateng, as we the traditional marriage. I know it was are dealing with a multi- important to both him and Bertha. While dimensional man; however I’ll attempt to going through the events, it all made abridge what I know about him through sense why he loved Ghana and its culture. these three partitions: He is first and Thank you Grandpa for allowing me into foremost a man of Christ, then a family such a great culture and country. man, and a patriot.  “Death leaves a heartache no one can heal, In the short time that I have known whilst love leaves a memory no one can Grandpa, I found him to consistently steal”. We do have a heartache not having read two books: The Bible and The you amongst us any longer; however we Reader’s Digest. That is a testament to exult in knowing that you are in a better his love for God and knowledge. That love place. We find comfort in the many great for God was so important to him that its memories you left us behind. legacy is visible through each of his kids and grandkids. Farewell Grandpa! Thank you for everything!  Anyone who spends few moments around Maxwell Yaw Okyere-Boateng, OYouusrmSaonne-iDn-liaowp., soon realizes how smitten he is about his family. It was beautiful to see him smile whilst watching the grandkids acting funny or doing something remarkable. Grandpa did not spare a second to give that lesson; which ensured the kids remain well-mannered, caring, honest, and aware of the importance of education. As long as “4k4t4 nwo anoma”, I have no worries about his progeny. How beautiful it is to hear him promote Twi, dress in traditional Akan garb, | 31 |

1942 | IN LOVING MEMORY oF THE LATE MAXWELL YAW OKYERE-BOATENG | 2022 Your death is the home- going of one of God’s most precious saints, a life marked with unusual selflessness. You deserve garlands, not wreaths; praises, not tears... | 32 |

1942 | IN LOVING MEMORY oF THE LATE MAXWELL YAW OKYERE-BOATENG | 2022 TRIBUTE BY GRANDCHILDREN TO OUR CHERISHED GRANDPA Joseph But, I know that you are in a better place, resting peacefully with the Lord. Until we Dear Grandpa, meet again in God’s heavenly abode, may I miss you dearly. I really do miss you rest in perfect peace. you dearly. When I first heard the news of you going to be with the Lord, I was Aryel filled with shock, because we had literally spoken to each other about two weeks My dear grandpa, ago. Growing up you were one of the most You made me the person I am influential people in my life. You inspired today and you taught me so me and you have taught me that no matter much. We were best friends. how hard life is, I should always fight strong till the end. You pushed me when I needed to be pushed, and you were hard on me when you needed I was deeply saddened at the fact that to be. You have been my inspiration since I wouldn’t be able to see you after my I was little and I will be forever grateful graduation or more life events to come. | 33 |

1942 | IN LOVING MEMORY oF THE LATE MAXWELL YAW OKYERE-BOATENG | 2022 for your presence in my life. your sisters.” And every visit the opportunity and gift of You are the reason I am so he would never forget to God given to us to sculpt our successful in life today and tell me that, and now I shall legacy, life. without your advice and make him proud by doing knowledge, I don't know how just that in honor of him. You may not be with us now, I would have made it. but I know you are enjoying Daniella the gift more abundantly in I love your dearly and I miss the presence of your maker. you tremendously. Even Dear Grandpa, In the meantime, I will strive through my grief I know you A few moments after to live a legacy of love like would want me to smile and the news finally you did, but until then, I hold to carry my head held high. broke out that you were now on to the hope that we will I love you and I will never with your maker, I could not meet again in heaven. Rest forget you. I am glad you are stop recalling the collection in perfect peace Grandpa. no longer in pain as those of wonderful memories and days were tough for me to treasured moments we had I love you, always have, and watch. Sleep well best friend. together. You were a man of always will. prudence, valor, and a figure Joshua to look up to in order to help Mikaylah me stay focused on what Grandpa Maxwell was mattered the most. Iremember the days the best man I could when we first moved to have ever known. He I remember when you told the US and had to walk lived his life gloriously and me I should become an to the bus stop for the first met every expectation. He architect after I made a rough time, Grandpa would always was someone you could never sketch of the house opposite walk us to the bus stop and I forget, he was a teacher, an to us while you sat out on the would jokingly complain to amazing influencer, and porch, a daily occurrence. At my dad that he didn’t need to father figure too, not just to the moment, I took it literally walk us because we were not his kin. But to all. Never in but looking back now, I kids, and in moments like my life would I regret having realized that you meant I these I would give anything a grandfather like him. I became the architect of my for him to be able to do that am forever blessed to be his legacy, and for you, it was again. grandson and my life would a legacy of love. You taught never have been complete me so much Grandpa—to My grandpa had always without him. I remember manage time wisely, to work been my guide through thick every time I came to visit hard for a noble cause, to be and thin, he taught me hard him, he always told me to kind to those around me, work and all the life lessons a “study hard, and take care of and above all to treasure girl would need. His life and | 34 |

1942 | IN LOVING MEMORY oF THE LATE MAXWELL YAW OKYERE-BOATENG | 2022 legacy has taught me to strive Adoniah him. I miss him so much and for success, I hope that one I hope I get to see him again. day I will be able to make you Grandpa to me was I love you and I miss you proud, I’ll love you always. a funny, kind, and Grandpa very very much. a sweet man. One Chasity of the favorite moments I Joel Our family wasn’t remember was everytime always picture we were watching soccer he Grandpa was good would always say, Guno! and taught me how perfect, as we always to read and write As a kid he always taught so that I get good grades had our great days and bad me how to read while doing on my reading and writing the program Hippy USA. quizzes. He was a good ones. However, regardless He was always being funny grandpa so I wish him well when reading. One thing in heaven forever. Without of what happened, and I remember was he never him I would not be able to let me use the shower, he read or write, so God bless regardless of who started always wanted me to use him. Also he really was strict the bucket. One thing I also but that made me have the it, it was our one and only wanna say is that he makes motivation to do things the best oatmeal ever. The like, play soccer or stick up Grandpa Maxwell who held last thing I wanna say is that for someone when they got he was the most inspiring bullied. I always knew he us all together. Throughout man I had ever met. wanted me to be strong for myself and others. He was the years, he guided us Eloise really special to me. through tough times with My grandpa was a l remember how he loves very kind man. He his soccer and the shouts of his wisdom and knowledge. would always read goals when his team did well. with me and he would tell I really miss those moments He always got my aunties me funny jokes that would and all the old pictures of and uncles together and was make me laugh so hard. I the family he showed me. I happy, as well as teaching me remember he would always miss those moments when and all the children valuable give me hugs and kisses, and we laughed together and lessons to know for the play with me. I remember read together. I have been future. He was a good and the teddy bear that he gave affected in many ways as he funny man himself, always me for Christmas, that I still is no more. I wish I could see watching Saturday morning hug every time I think about grandpa again and hug him. soccer and supporting us all. Sleep well GrandPa Back then, no matter how many lectures he gave us or how many tough times we were put through, we always made a way to get through it. So now, more than ever, we need to start paving that way again. | 35 |

1942 | IN LOVING MEMORY oF THE LATE MAXWELL YAW OKYERE-BOATENG | 2022 TRIBUTE BY YAW ODAME BROTHER and I will strive to do the very same. You have been a How do I even through life's challenges, in true instance of wealth and begin? How do marriage, in the nurturing knowledge. I move on from of my children and many here? To whom others, you were always You have fought a good will I go for my advice? there for me. Each morning, fight, and I am most grateful For years you have been I wake up hoping this could for Antie Bertha and the my Father, my Mother and have been a dream. How children who tirelessly above all, Big Brother. Saying can God take away the very worked to give you the best you’ve been my everything treasure he had given me? care you needed. I assure would be an understatement. On several occasions, my you of my sustenance and You have been my source work with the Bureau of guidance for them moving of wisdom to life’s many National Investigations forward. They are a vivid questions. Every time spent (BNI), took me away from example of your charisma with you left me with an home. Never did I have to and love for everyone; and increased insight into life’s worry because I always knew it’s my prayer that God’s greatest challenges. my wife and children were in blessing never leaves them. good hands. You always took Sleep well my Snr Bother. From day one, you took me very good care of them until on as your own first son. every return. The love you You are and always will be Sometimes your children had for everyone compelled my brother and my best even laughed and questioned me to name my second friend. I will always love you, how we related so well. I am daughter, Maame Afua after no matter how long it’s been more than grateful for each you. Your earnest desire since God called you home. advice that has guided me to always bring everyone through the stages of life. together as one knit will be I love you brother In times of uncertainties, forever engraved in my heart | 36 |

1942 | IN LOVING MEMORY oF THE LATE MAXWELL YAW OKYERE-BOATENG | 2022 TRIBUTE BY & NEPHEWS NIECES Daddy, our hearts were filled with deep sorrow For the upon hearing the news of your demise. That dead and ominous day will forever be loathed in our living we hearts. Indeed, your passing has left a huge must bear void in our fragile hearts. If only we had the power to wrestle you back from the dead, we would gladly do so. witness Unfortunately, death is inevitable, it is a journey that everyone must take. Oftentimes, we wish death wasn’t a Ellis Wiesel part of our existence, we wish we would just stay alive on earth, with our dear ones not dying. But the Scriptures say, (1929 – 2016) there is a time to be born and a time to die. Growing up, we knew you to be a disciplinarian and a loving uncle who seldom spares us when we go wrong. At the time, our young minds could not fathom the actions of our dear uncle which was meant to mold us into responsible adults. We are grateful to you for inculcating in us the importance of discipline and hard work. While we mourn you today, we are comforted that your mission on earth have been fulfilled. We thank the LORD for your life and most especially for the fact that, we consider ourselves blessed to have lived this life as your nieces and nephews Although we loved you dearly, we could not make you stay. A precious heart stopped beating. God broke our hearts to prove to us, He only takes “The Best”. Rest in perfect peace Daddy. | 37 |

1942 | IN LOVING MEMORY oF THE LATE MAXWELL YAW OKYERE-BOATENG | 2022 TRIBUTE BY COUSIN REV. EBENEZAR OBIRI ADDO, PHD WOFA YAW BOATENG: is mounting higher; the pulpit should do MY “BARNABAS” the same.” (ACTS 4:36) These were earnest, enduring words The contours of my birth from a caring brother who saw beyond made me an “outsider” in my the immediacy of the moment. Wofa Yaw maternal lineage. When I followed and encouraged me every step came of age in my later teens, of the way: I was back to the University my dear Aunt Ataa Akosua sought me of Ghana, Legon, within a couple of from my father who had virtually raised months, Princeton Theological Seminary me as Anum-Guan and reconnected me was soon to follow, and culminated in with my Abusua—my maternal lineage, my doctoral studies at Drew University. but not without ensuring that I had a Wofa Yaw partially funded my research mentor and a “Barnabas”, an encourager. for my dissertation and was jubilant to Maxwell Yaw Okyere-Boateng became see me graduate in 1994. My Barnabas, O that person. my Barnabas. This relationship hit its zenith when I was Members of the Int. Koofie Abusua would commissioned into Christian ministry remember his encouragement, kindness, in June 1978. Wofa Yaw, my name of tenacity of purpose, humility, and above endearment for him, was then stationed all his “wise patience”, even for difficult at Tamale as the Regional Manager of the members. Who else has tried to establish Agricultural Development Bank. With an educational trust for the Abusua? his wife Auntie Bertha, they invited me Who else has gathered end-of-year get- to spend some time for rest and reflection together in their homes for Abusuafoo? before assuming my first pastoral call Who else would tenaciously reach out at the Ramseyer Presbyterian Church, and bring folks into the fold at all cost like Adum, Kumasi. “Do not be satisfied Wofa Yaw? with the collar. You are very young. Seek further education and training. We need Apart from his academic and professional highly educated pastors, because the pew excellence, Wofa Yaw Boateng loved the Lord and the Lord’s Church. He always knew that our greatest needs are not | 38 |

1942 | IN LOVING MEMORY oF THE LATE MAXWELL YAW OKYERE-BOATENG | 2022 just physical; they are also spiritual. He reminded me of this story of a man who admonished his son for repeatedly disobeying him and finally said to him, “Son, if you do that once more you are going up in the attic without your dinner and spend the night.” The son, naturally, did it again to test his father, and the threat was carried out. He gave his son a glass of water and a piece of bread and joined his son in the attic, and the boy spent the most memorable night of his life with his head upon his father’s shoulder. Such was the spirituality of Wofa Yaw, a combination of wisdom, patience, and fortitude. Wife Bertha and children: We know Yaw, da yie! Thank you for reminding a mighty tree has fallen. Our inter- us once again that “No one knows their pathy goes with you as you navigate beginnings, and no one knows their end; the loss of a great husband, father, and except God” (Obiara nnim n’abose, obiara grandfather; above all a “Barnabas.” God nso nnim n’awie, agye Nyame). gave you one of the best human gifts. He was a “Gentle Giant” who nurtured Ebenezer Obiri Addo, Ph. D. many, including congregations such as Associate Professor, Africana Studies, Kaseman Presbyterian Church in Ghana, Ashesi University, Berekuso, Ghana; and Ebenezer Presbyterian Church in Missionary to Africa, Woodbridge, Virginia. First Presbyterian and Trinity Church, South Orange, New Jersey Wofa Yaw Boateng, travel safely to join (Presbyterian Church, USA) Police Inspector Okyere and Maame Abena Agyekumwaa. Yaw eeee! Okugyeso Nana, Sekan Kontonkyi a ebu akuma. | 39 |

1942 | IN LOVING MEMORY oF THE LATE MAXWELL YAW OKYERE-BOATENG | 2022 TRIBUTE BY MAJOR RETIRED GYKWABENA ASI Death be not proud, thou- during the Easter holiday break at Nkwatia gh some have called thee and have some fun over the break. Together mighty and dreadful, for, with Mr. Gyarteng, another good friend thou art not so”. of ours, we were known to many as the Three Musketeers, because we’d be seen These are the beginnings of the together during all our various escapades, words of the English poet John gracing the entire town with our presence Donne in his defiance of death. over the holiday. Such was the frenzy that He goes on to say “Death, thou characterized our outings while celebrating shalt die”. With these words, I bid farewell the Easter holidays. COVID has now come to my friend and indeed brother Mr. Yaw to destroy many things to include all such Okyere-Boateng also affectionately called Easter celebrations at Nkwatia. No wonder “Yaw”. Yaw and I had so many pleasant my dear friend and brother has also decided moments together until cruel death decided to leave this sorrowful earth amidst this to take him away from us. It has not been pandemic. easy. Even though John Donne says death is not dreadful, it is indeed dreadful. One Yaw was the very epitome of myths, has to be very close to the departed to feel laughter and happiness during all our the true sense of separation. gatherings. Always having so many jokes and tales to tell, he earned the nickname Yaw and I were born to mothers who “Toli Master”. Every single joke he told both hailed from Nkwatia-Kwahu and was very well crafted, and coupled with also coincidentally were both married to his vibrant delivery would leave us all policemen. As children we lived in the hysterically laughing till the end; while also barracks, but never met until our college wondering if he’d put it together himself or days. Yaw went to the University of Science had heard it elsewhere. Either way we were and Technology and I went to the University always glad and privileged to have Yaw at of Ghana Legon. We would usually meet the center stage of our gatherings knowing he’d always have an encyclopedia of jokes to draw from. Additionally, he was also quite a skilled counselor and I in particular greatly benefitted from many of his counseling. On | 40 |

1942 | IN LOVING MEMORY oF THE LATE MAXWELL YAW OKYERE-BOATENG | 2022 several occasions when we’d be surrounded coincidentally that son of his Kwabena is by many girls at Kwahu, he would advise me also a retired Major in the United States “Kwabena, please be careful around these Marine Corps. Whether his aspirations girls”. We would just laugh and continue came from me giving him haircuts or from on with our fun escapades. The three of us his Grandfather being a Police officer, I became such good friends that our children suppose posterity will be our judge. also became very close with each other. Yaw, you have fought a good fight. You have I remember when Yaw was living and run a good race and all that remains is a working out of Hohoe. We would sometimes well-deserved crown that the good Lord go and visit him over the weekend and boy will bestow upon you. You have been a pillar that would turn out to be quite the visit. Those in the family and a great memories will forever man as far as affairs be a part of me. When surrounding Nkwatia. he was working in Kumasi, I was a young You have played your Lieutenant in the part and played it with Ghana Armed Forces excellence and grace. It and I would visit him is my fervent hope that on many occasions. His your good deeds and son Kwabena became a works will continue to victim of my learning remain and never be process trying to learn fo r g o t t e n ,w h e n e v e r barbering. I would sit we come to recite the him down and practice history of Nkwatia at my barbering skills of any time. “Da Yie” my giving him a Tokyo Joe good friend and brother. haircut. Go and rest peacefully in the bosom of your Yaw would return from Maker. work to see my imperfections of a haircut on his son, and ask his son, “who gave you We are all in the departure lounge. You this haircut?” and his son would respond have taken your flight and departed. Very “Wofa Kwabena Gyasi gave me the cut”. soon we shall all join you when our flights Yaw would dare not ask me anything are announced. about it and would not say a word about my You will never be alone. lack of barbering skills. It was all in good fun celebrating the life of his son. Today, Yaw, Damirifa due. Due ne amanehunu. | 41 |

1942 | IN LOVING MEMORY oF THE LATE MAXWELL YAW OKYERE-BOATENG | 2022 MEMORIES | 42 |

1942 | IN LOVING MEMORY oF THE LATE MAXWELL YAW OKYERE-BOATENG | 2022 | 43 |

1942 | IN LOVING MEMORY oF THE LATE MAXWELL YAW OKYERE-BOATENG | 2022 TRIBUTE BY ODURO KWADJO GYARTENG TO A FRIEND/BROTHER SINCE BIRTH The Lives of mortals is like Kwahu in general. Of course, we did forget Grass, They Flourish Like to enjoy in full the various entertainments a Grass In The Field programs laid on but one thing we did not forget to do, and in-fact did succeed Psalm 103:15 in doing, was to use the Easter periods to search for our future wives. Iwas informed by my forebears that at After KNUST, when we secured our the beginning of August, 1942, your employments, we continued to play our mum and mine all of Nkwatia-Kwahu active roles in the development of Nkwatia and all expectant mothers, almost through our active participation in the clashed at the gates of a then well-known activities of the Accra Nkwatiaman Kuo midwife Augusta Hukporti’s maternity (formerly Nkwatia Welfare Union). clinic, near the Koforidua Electricity In addition to the concern for our town station. Lo and behold, on the 6th of August, we did not forget to serve our church, the you - Maxwell Yaw Okyere Boateng - was Nkwatia Ramseyer Presbyterian Church. delivered to your mum. My turn to be born Here, together with a few others, and came the following Monday, the 10th. Then at the agreement of the session of the fate brought us together once again when Nkwatia Presby Church, we formed the we were both admitted to courses of study Nkwatia Presby Church Easter Harvest at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science planning group in Accra. This group and Technology (KNUST), Kumasi; you single-handedly, and for several susequent finally graduating in Agriculture, and I in years, planned and executed, from afar, Mechanical Engineering. many Ramseyer Easter Sunday Harvests for the development, improvement and At KNUST I cannot help but recall our maintenance of the church, the manse and unfailing travels to Nkwatia-Kwahu every the Primary school in Nkwatia. year to take part in all the Easter “festivities” And how can I forget the role you and I and to play our part in the planning and played together with respect to the Kwahu development of Nkwatia, in particular, and Development Association (KDA) – an | 44 |

1942 | IN LOVING MEMORY oF THE LATE MAXWELL YAW OKYERE-BOATENG | 2022 association for which I am currently the Your sudden death has in-fact left us out-going Chairman. In particular was dumfounded but as Christians, we believe the major role you played in preventing that the Almighty God was in control of harm to several of our members under the your life and will grant you eternal rest. canopies when the ceremony was suddenly Yaw, Dammirifa Due, disrupted by a dangerous windstorm at Rest well my brother. the first Grand Kwahu Easter of KDA cum Grand Durbar of Kwahuhene and his Chiefs in 2007 when His Excellency the President of Ghana, Mr J. A. Kufuor, was invited and happened to be in attendance at Abetifi Ramseyer Presbyterian Park on Saturday, 7th April 2007. Hmm, Yaw how I was looking forward to us celebrating our 80th birthday anniversary together in August as we had discussed. But as the saying goes -Man proposes, God disposes-. | 45 |

1942 | IN LOVING MEMORY oF THE LATE MAXWELL YAW OKYERE-BOATENG | 2022 TRIBUTE TO MY BEST FRIEND ERNEST KOFI SIRIBOE-SARPONG In June 1963, I passed my Ordinary When I migrated to United Kingdom in Level examination at Sadler 1985, we still kept in touch and he visited Baptist Secondary school-which is me. I also paid him a visit in United States now Kumasi Academy and gained in 2001. admission to Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology to do my In 2010 we were both in Ghana and spent Advanced Level in Biological sciences. In the Easter holidays together in Nkwatia September 1963, when I went to residence where I met his mother for the last time. in Independence Hall I met Okyere- During every Easter he would send me Boateng from St Peters Secondary school notification with the slogan- \"Kwawhuoo who has also gained admission to do his Kwawhu\". A-Level in Biological sciences. When my sister died in Kumasi he was in We became friends and he introduced US but sent his younger brother, Kwadwo me to his parents and siblings. He also Ansong to represent him at the funeral. I got to know some of my relatives. When was in UK when his mother also died and my mother died suddenly in May 1964 relatives represented me at the funeral at through child's birth, I left the University Nkwatia. The last time I saw him face to Campus for her burial without informing face was at my residence in Kumasi in 2018 any of my friends. This led to a frantic when he and his brothers paid a brief visit search for me by my friends including after a funeral at Onwe in Ejisu District. Okyere-Boat as he was popularly known. Infact, we were more than brothers and They traced me to my village and during kept in touch till he was hospitalized. the funeral all my friends with Okyere- Boat as the leader. That day the funeral I am grateful to God that He gave the became student's entertainment event. opportunity to know Okyere -Boat and After our A-Level course, we gained his family. I thank his dear wife, Bertha admission to the Faculty of Agriculture and the children for the care they gave to where both of us pursued Agricultural my best friend Okyere-Boat at the time of Sciences. We stayed as good friends and his needs. All the pains are no more and I did so many things together. believe he is with his maker. After graduation in June 1968, we went May he rest in perfect peace until we meet our separate ways but we kept in touch. again. | 46 |

1942 | IN LOVING MEMORY oF THE LATE MAXWELL YAW OKYERE-BOATENG | 2022 LET US PRAY God, You see those who mourn, and You promise to comfort them. Please bring healing to our hearts when we grieve. Give hope to those feeling hopeless, and strength to anyone feeling overwhelmed. Show us how close You are in the midst of our grief. In Jesus Name Amen. TRIBUTE BY THE QUAIGRAINES OF SAKAMAN We all affectionately called the US, but you never failed to touch base you “Papa Yaw”, young and whenever you came for holidays in Ghana. old, no one called you by your real name. Papa Yaw We heard of your illness and prayed for and the family joined the 13th Close family your recovery, but God saw you were tired in the (please insert year). and wrapped his arms around you, inviting you to rest with him. With tearful eyes, We called ourselves the 13th Close we watched you slip away slowly. A golden Association, one big happy family where heart stopped beating, hard-working hands he held the title of “street president”. There at rest. God broke our hearts to prove to us he was the North team and the south team, only takes the best. The perfect gentleman. football after school. The bigger boys had a basketball team with the rim right behind Papa Yaw, may your Shepherd Jesus lead Papa Yaw’s window. How he made it you home to rest with The Father. through the noise every Saturday morning Rest in perfect peace Papa Yaw. was a wonder to us all. Papa Yaw supported communal labour. “For to this end Jesus both died and From repairing the road to supporting the rose and revived, that He might children in their choir which occasionally be Lord both of the dead and the performed at his church; Sakaman Presby. living.” Papa Yaw, you gave sound advice, and you were the best husband, father, grandfather Amen. Romans 9:14 and big brother to us all. You moved to Damirifa Due Papa Yaw. | 47 |

1942 | IN LOVING MEMORY oF THE LATE MAXWELL YAW OKYERE-BOATENG | 2022 TRIBUTE BY ROBERT BROBBEY AMAGYEI Mr Maxwell Okyere-Boateng the family moved to North Carolina, the and I met for the first time in communication between us continued to 2008 at the inauguration of flourish. In July 2020, he sent us an invitation the Asona Abusua. Present to his youngest daughter’s wedding that at the gathering was Mr Michael Asomaning was coming up in August. We honored the who I already knew. The interaction we had invitation and were very well received by and exchange of phone numbers will soon his family. Although we observed he had bring the three of us together as friends. not been doing well, nonetheless our visit Over the next few years it became obvious reinvigorated his spirit and it was a joyful that Mr Boateng was not just a husband, day for all. father and grandfather. He was a brother, uncle, father-in-law, a man with many I was in Ghana when news about the demise accomplishments; a trailblazer, one of of our dear friend was broken to me by the impeccable character, witty, and endowed good Major on January 10 2022. Mr Boateng, with wisdom and knowledge. this was very unexpected. As I stand here, I can almost sense a tingling I yearn for your He opened his house and family to us and incoming phone call. I answer and yell out facilitated occasional visits where we would my usual words “Asaawa, Asaawa”; but your talk about a range of issues pertaining to usual response “Odooondo” is now silent. I counseling, advice, strategic planning and will forever miss that. encouragement. A product of KNUST and advanced studies here in the United States To Bertha Asante the widow, Kwaku, with over 30 years as a bank manager,he Kwabena, Abena, Emelia, Richard, worked in one of the major banking Ousmane, Debranna, Abigail, the grand- institutions in Ghana until his retirement. children and the rest of the bereaved family, He also took keen interest in the education we offer our sincere heartfelt sympathy to of his two grandchildren that I was privy you for this great loss. to. His study room always had a variety of children's books that he used to tutor the Mr Okyere-Boateng, may the good Lord look grandchildren for a stronger academic upon your good heart and give you a good foundation in addition to what they were rest in Abraham’s bosom. being taught in the classroom. Fare thee well. On two separate occasions, he asked that God be with you till we meet again. I join him in Maryland for annual Kwahu Da yie. Association get together events. Even after | 48 |

1942 | IN LOVING MEMORY oF THE LATE MAXWELL YAW OKYERE-BOATENG | 2022 TRIBUTE FROM RAMSEYER MEN'S FELLOWSHIP. PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF GHANA SOUTH ODOKOR, SAKAMAN Show me, O’Lord my life's end And the number of my days Let me know how fleeting is my life You have made my days mere hand- breadth, The span of my years is as nothing before you. Each month's life is but at breadth Psalm 39: 4 - 5 It is with sadness that we write this times. And when God is in control, the raging tribute for our departed brother, seas calm down when he raises his powerful Maxwell Okyere - Boateng. We received right hand. We also have a firm belief that the news of his person with pain, shock grief is not a permanent condition, because and sorrow. The pain was very sharp; the God will always bring something good out of shock severe and the sorrow, very very deep. a tragedy. The time of sorrow would definitely Our brother has been a loyal member of the end and the family will finally find peace. Ramseyer men's fellowship right from it’s formation. He attended church services Even when we grieve over his passing on, we and group meetings regularly, and always still thank God that our brother remained made immense contributions to support the faithful to his maker until the very end. If we fellowship. He had a habit of always paying had our way, we would have liked him to be for his dues well in advance. At the beginning still alive and strong in our midst. But God of the year, he would pay up through knows best and our ways are not His ways, December. Even when he traveled to the neither our thoughts His thoughts. After United States, he would clear all outstanding all, he is still the sovereign God, the creator arrears anytime he visited. He would also who is not accountable to anybody. If in His attend church services as well as a Thursday infinite wisdom He has decided to call our fellowship meeting on his visits. brother home, it is well and good. Our prayer is that the angels will meet him on the way Our deepest condolences go to the bereaved and lead him gently to heaven. family. His absence will be a big loss to the family but we know that the good Lord will Fare thee well, and may God keep you safe till make provision and fill the vacuum that will be we meet again at the throne of grace. left. God has always been there for his people since creation, and he will be there at all Amen. | 49 |

1942 | IN LOVING MEMORY oF THE LATE MAXWELL YAW OKYERE-BOATENG | 2022 TRIBUTE BY PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF GHANA RAMSEYER CONGREGATION SOUTH ODORKOR SAKAMAN I am a sojourner here, a stranger in the early days.His wife personally on this earth which is not my volunteered to decorate the church with home, with pain, hard work flowers every Sunday and during occasions and toil, I travel here on earth. like Mini and Annual Harvest. Heaven where God himself Late Okyere Boateng joined the family dwells, there is the home for me’’ in the USA in 2003 but visited Ghana frequently. And each time he came, he PHB791:1 made his presence felt for members to know he was around. He was jovial and a Mr. Maxwell Okyere Boateng good communicator. His last visit was in popularly known and called March 2015. The news of his demise was Okyere Boateng and his shocking to members, especially the older family joined the South folks since he promised to visit again in Odorkor Sakaman Presby Church now 2020. called Ramseyer Congregation in May 1989 whilst worshiping at Mr.& Mrs. Darfoors Man proposes but God who plans activities residence. of men disposes to prove His Sovereignty. You served your church faithfully and now Mr. Okyere Boateng was a full member and a God awaits you to continue your services in communicant; he was also a member of the eternity. Men’s Fellowship. Late Okyere Boateng was one of the dedicated and active members Blessed are those who serve the Lord in who supported the Church financially and Spirit and Truth and they shall find eternal participated in most communal works rest. Rest in Perfect Peace | 50 |