Tribute - Paul Cheniwi

Papa was a dedicated family man who loved and respected his wife deeply; my mom was the envy of other women in Benakuma Esimbi. I remember, in 1981, as a young child, some people came to buy coffee from Papa while Mama had traveled to Bamenda. He refused to sell, stating that he could only do so when Mama was back.

Papa loved his children and was always there when they needed him. As one of the most stubborn kids in the family, I never wanted to go to school, but Papa negotiated with the head teacher to ensure that four strong class-seven boys would pick me up, take me to school, and keep me there so I could be educated. His love didn't stop there; Papa even took up work as a night watchman for the Catholic Church in Benakuma to ensure that I could continue my schooling at Sacred Heart College. I remember he only truly rested when I came back to Benakuma for the holidays. As if that was not enough, when I finished university, he encouraged me to find a place of my own and even sold one of his properties in Benakuma to help me start building my first house in Buea.

Papa was a man of peace. I remember being threatened with machetes on our way to one of his largest orchards in Benakuma, which was valued at millions. Instead of retaliating, Papa chose to let it go, saying he would rather focus on his children than get entangled in endless court battles.

Papa was also a man of wisdom. He and Mama decided against upgrading their home in Bafut until I was married. I had to introduce my girlfriend, now my wife, before any upgrades could be done to their home in Nsoh Bafut.

While in the US, Papa spent most of his time with me, teaching me through his actions to be kind, caring, and generous. I remember him asking me to buy clothes for all the kids who visited him. If I delayed, he would ask repeatedly until I fulfilled his wish. I recall him giving money to my kids and other children who visited, saying it was for school fees and blessings to help them succeed.

Papa, you shaped my life and that of my children daily through your actions. Your smile, laughter, and jokes filled our home with warmth. Seeing so many people visiting these past weeks shows just how loved you were and how deeply you will be missed.

Paul Cheniwi

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Pa John, It’s hard to believe we are here to celebrate your life—a life that touched so many of us in ways we will never forget. You were an embodiment of strength, a source of laughter, wisdom, and a wellspring of comfort. You had a way of turning pain into a joke or a witty remark just when we felt down, and your laughter was infectious. We will miss your sense of humor, the little jokes you made, and the light teasing that made even the toughest days a little easier to bear. I was honored to share the same birthday as you.

Jesse, Joy, Janelle, and Joey will miss the stories you told, the lessons you taught, and, of course, the way you made them laugh. They were so lucky to have had you in their lives for these past years. You set an example for them of what it means to be loving, strong, and full of joy.

Your life was a model of integrity and kindness. We will remember you with love, gratitude, and laughter. Thank you, "American Boy," for all the years you gave us—for your love, your wisdom, your jokes, and your steady presence. You were, and always will be, deeply cherished. The memories we shared will keep you in our hearts forever. We love you and will miss you dearly.

"Fred, I find myself constantly looking back at the last message you sent, hoping for another one. You had so much ahead of you and so many plans yet to fulfill. While we may never fully understand why, we take comfort in knowing you’re in a better place now. Until we meet again, Bro."

Alvina and Kids (Jesse, Joy, Janelle & Joey)

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Dear Fred, I lastly saw you when you were a student. I knew you had a bright future, and you have proved it. Now the Lord has taken you by His side where you have no more worries. Intercede for your parents, kids, wife, and family. Fare yee well to glory land.

Auntie Prisca Suh