Daddy passed on June 30th 2016 at Muna Polyclinic Bonanjo, Douala after surviving a stroke for five years.
Daddy was born to Pa Gottfre Benyela Gwandua and Mami Ruth Ngweh in Bali, North west Province. Due to the early demise of both his parents, he was raised by Na Elizabeth Kahmbot. He started school in 1949 at the vernacular school Bali Nyonga. He then attended the Basel Mission School Njenka, Bali In 1950 and later moved to Banso and Nkambe, Northwest province. Due to this, Daddy was fluent in Mungaka, Lamso,Winbum and Kedjom (by virtue of marriage). He attended his secondary education in CPC Bali and later CCAST Bambili.Daddy wrote a government exam called ASPAU and passed with flying colours which earned him a schorlarship to study Mathematics at The Fisk University, Nashville, Tenessee, USA. He then picked up a teaching job in Ombe and Kumba where he raised money for his journey.
Daddy earned a BA in Mathematics, from Fisk University in 1971. Daddy had 2 further MA's in Statistics and Industrial Engineering specializing in Operations research from Penn State University (1973, 1974). During this time he met Wilda Frances Smith and Karen Gwandua was born in 1971.
Daddy met and married Mummy- Grace Abimu Mundi Gwandua on the 13th September 1975. A beautiful marriage ordained in heaven that lasted 41 years. A union of love, devotion, commitment and respect that was blessed with 6 children.
After daddy returned to Cameroon, he worked for the Cameroon Government from 1974-1995. As a statistician and Development Economist, Daddy's landmark contribution as Director of census in Cameroon's first general census on population and housing cannot be forgotten. He participated in codifying and processing the census in 1987. His passion for economic development triggered a new strategic business model at CDC (Cameroon development Coperation) while serving as the coporation's pioneer Planning and Development Manager (1999-2004).
Daddy retired in 2004.
He leaves behind his;
Wife: Grace Gwandua
6 children: Karen Y Gwandua, Melanie N Gwandua, Gina K Gwandua, Kah W Bantar, Aneh P Kishi and Tiga Tuma Njungi.
13 grandchildren: Essence Jeanese Hill, Kenesha'Breon Hill, Darral Ray Tharpe Jr., Darmishia Raishawn Tharpe,Tita Djibril Mendi, Gina-Leonella Mbong, Joey Foncham, Tyra Bantar ,Therese-Grace Bantar , Khloe Kishi, Kimora Kishi, Kayla Kishi, Imani-Jolie Njungi.
These are Daddy's kin but he was a father, mentor, consultant, author, friend and confidant to countless people. Daddy was loved and cherised by many.... he will be sadly missed.
Daddy we love you and miss you ....We will remember you forever.