Founder of the Pneuma Institute and President of Eastwood Anaba Ministries (EAM), Pastor Eastwood Anaba, has described the Apaak family as a symbol of hope for the Upper East Region, following the burial of the late Pastor John Azundem Apaak.
Pastor Anaba made the remarks during the funeral and burial service held today at the GNAT Hall in Bolgatanga, before the late pastor was laid to rest at Dorninga in the Builsa South District.
“When I see the grandchildren and the family of the late Pastor John Apaak, I see that there is hope for the Upper East Region,” Pastor Anaba stated.
He said the values embodied by the Apaak family reflect the enduring legacy left behind by the late pastor, whose life of faith and service continues to inspire many across the region.
“The late John Apaak left a legacy of hope for the region,” he added.
Pastor Anaba also disclosed that he accepted the role of chief mourner at the funeral following a personal request from the wife of the late pastor, noting the deep sense of communal responsibility that defines the people of the Upper East.
“When the mother of Dr. Apaak requested that I should be part of the chief mourners, I couldn’t reject it, because in the Upper East, everybody is everybody’s son or daughter,” he said.
However, the tribute by the children highlighted his presence in their adult lives and marriages. “Our spouses felt comfortable confiding in you,” the children noted, saying he listened patiently and offered counsel aimed at preserving peace at home.
“You never hesitated to point out our shortcomings, yet you always did so with wisdom and love.”
They recalled his constant calls.
“Many a time you would call, and when we asked what the matter was, you would say, ‘I just wanted to hear your voice’.” The children asked plaintively, “Who will call just to hear our voices? Who will caution and give us guidance?”
Emotions peaked as the tribute recounted the final hours before his death on November 4, 2025. They said Clement had visited him the previous evening.
“You even prayed for him and walked him to his car,” the message recalled, adding that he joked about being strong and walking daily for exercise.
His sudden passing hours later, they said, came as a shock.
As Professor Daniel Apaak broke down in tears while reading, Dr. Clement Apaak stepped forward to complete the tribute, a moment that visibly moved mourners.
“We are heartbroken,” the children said, “but we are consoled by the fact that you lived and died serving your God.”
They described his later years as fully devoted to faith.
“Anyone who knew you in the latter part of your life would have no doubt that you are in the bosom of your Maker,” the tribute said. “Baba, we miss you, but God loves you more. Rest well till we meet again.”
