ForeverMissed
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Dr. Obafemi Ayantuga B.Sc., D. Phil., MBBChir., SFHM,. FACP., MPH was the Medical Director of Hospitalist services at the Fairview Medical group in Minnesota, U.S.A.

He obtained his Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry and Bio Chemistry from London University in 1986 and then proceeded to Oxford University to pursue his Ph.D in Organic Chemistry. At Oxford University, Dr. Ayantuga was able to complete his thesis in an impressive time period of just under 3 years and at a fairly young age of 23 years. During his research at Oxford, he developed a molecular cell and was awarded the coveted Bishop Frazer prize for Excellence in research in Organic Chemistry by the University of Oxford.

Obafemi Ayantuga’s quest for learning was not to end there. He decided to go on to medical school and graduated a few years later from Cambridge University with a MBBChir. in 1994. There, he received the John and Margaret Henderson memorial prize in Medicine.  He worked as a Senior house officer in a couple of UK hospitals before leaving for the U.S.A to continue his career where he was an Internal Medicine Resident at the University of Minnesota Medical school.

Dr. Ayantuga worked at the Kanabec hospital in Mora, Minnesota for a few years and at the time of his death, was working at the Fairview Southdale Hospital group, having been appointed Medical Director there in 2010.

He had many years of experience in Professional Medical leadership and has served on various committees ranging from Patient care, Pharmacy and Therapeutics, Medical Group Practice to Hospital Trauma care, to name but a few.

He belonged to several professional affiliations such as the American College of Physicians, The society of Hospital Medicine, The American college of Physician Executives and the American Public Health Association.

Dr. Ayantuga garnered a wealth of experience spanning over 20 years in the Medical and Research fields and became one of the 47 Senior Fellows in Hospital Medicine(SFHM) in the U.S.A in the elite class of 2014. He continued until his death, to demonstrate dedication to quality and process involvement, illustrating commitment to active engagement in lifelong learning. 

August 17, 2015
August 17, 2015
"The songs of the waves and the hymns of the streams
Are scattered, and the voices of the throngs reduced to silence;
And I can hear naught but the music of Eternity
In exact harmony with the spirit's desires.
I am cloaked in full whiteness;
I am in comfort; I am in peace."
August 14, 2015
August 14, 2015
Femi, I had not seen you in such a long time! When I heard of your passing, I was so sad. Why? You are so young....I remember you well. So handsome! Dark and handsome. And I remember your lovely, warm smile. And I remember people telling me of your academic exploits and yet, Femi, you were so modest. A perfect gentlemen. A a bright light from my secondary school days in the UK! A jewel. You continue to be one. A pride to Nigeria, Africa and America. You led a distinguished life, Femi. The world has lost you but we have all gained so much beauty in our hearts by having known you. At whatever stage of our lives. May your lovely soul rest in perfect peace. Amen. My love to you and blessings, Femi. From Toun Williams
August 13, 2015
August 13, 2015
Dearest Obi, Your passing has left an immense void here at Southdale. We miss you more than words can say. I am so thankful for having had the opportunity to know you, even for the short time that I did. You will always be my mentor and continue to inspire and motivate me even still. I pray that you are at peace and that I will see you again on the other end of this life.
August 12, 2015
August 12, 2015
Dearest Femi ! A gentleman to the core, we didn't see you often but somehow you or your words were always part of our conversation. Whatever Femi said, was the correct, most well thought out and the proper way to do it. You will be sorely missed. The brightest lights always dim so quickly but we will remember you always. May God continue to comfort Bola, Lola and Busola and your nieces and nephews who all miss you. You were a rock to them, but God will surely give them a foundation to stand on, to bear your loss. Thank you for being a friend, it was a privilege and a joy… Rest in Perfect Peace...
August 10, 2015
August 10, 2015
My darling, how can I be writing this! I still phone Bola all the time to wake me up from this NIGHTMARE
Uncle and only God father to My three.

You are a Doctor who lived in America,but got a highly reputable law firm in England for Peaches! What a man! What an uncle,what a brother and what a friend.
We had been texting back and forth a couple of days before and I told you this text business is too much for me, you are a 'a pro', actually in everything you do.( can't use the past tense re you). Our darling Bola and the Conolly family gave you a most beautiful send off, I know you are proud of all.

I sat by the lake where you are interred,and the peace,lovely greenery,and calm lake are incredible.

Aburo mi Owon ,now egbon mi atata , may the light of Christ lead you home. Amen.
Look forward to meeting up again,my own Obafemi, REST,rest in the Peace of our Lord Jesus Christ.
To whom shall I run to for selfless true advice and right admonition from time to time?? ' Busola you are not compliant with your Meds' you always said.

Pele oh oko mi, adeori me, sun re oh,till we meet again

ILOVE AND MISS YOU ALREADY.

Bu.'
August 10, 2015
August 10, 2015
My darling, how can I be writing this! I still phone Bola all the time to wake me up from this NIGHTMARE
Uncle and only God father to My three.

You are a Doctor who lived in America,but got a highly reputable law firm in England for Peaches! What a man! What an uncle,what a brother and what a friend.
We had been texting back and forth a couple of days before and I told you this text business is too much for me, you are a 'a pro', actually in everything you do.( can't use the past tense re you). Our darling Bola and the Conolly family gave you a most beautiful send off, I know you are proud of all.

I sat by the lake where you are interred,and the peace,lovely greenery,and calm lake are incredible.

Aburo mi Owon ,now egbon mi atata , may the light of Christ lead you home. Amen.
Look forward to meeting up again,my own Obafemi, REST,rest in the Peace of our Lord Jesus Christ.
To whom shall I run to for selfless true advice and right admonition from time to time?? ' Busola you are not compliant with your Meds' you always said.

Pele oh oko mi, adeori me, sun re oh,till we meet again

ILOVE AND MISS YOU ALREADY.

Bu.'
August 10, 2015
August 10, 2015
I cannot believe that dear Femi is gone so soon to a better place. Femi was my true friend, sincere loyal and honest with a wry sense of humour, he would say one comment and I would laugh for weeks. One of the most fiercely intelligent men, yet kind, gentle, giving everyone the utmost respect. Femi, I will miss you, and I will miss our friendship, Rest in Peace, May Almighty God comfort Bola, Lola and Busola. Amen.
August 9, 2015
August 9, 2015
TRIBUTE TO DR. OBAFEMI AYANTUGA

Dr. Obafemi Ayantuga's demise came as a shock.

Femi and I parted ways 34 years ago when as bubbly teenagers, we had completed our secondary education at King's College, Lagos.

As fate would have it, we have not set eyes on each other since that time. We were destined, however, to establish communications during the yuletide of 2014 and had remained in contact until his demise on the 23rd July, 2015. His passing is indeed very sudden as I observe his having read a post I had sent to our KCOB class of '81 forum about noon (Nigerian Time) on that fateful day!

Although Femi and I were not in the same arm of class, we belonged to the same House - the enviable McKee-Wright's!

It is with a heavy heart that I recall teasing him, during a chat in December 2014, about being an "ajebutter" who cheerily strolled into school each morning as a day student and also recollected the white Mercedes Benz (LAB 1) that conveyed him to and from school. Femi had excitedly remarked, "impressive recall, Ibrahim!" I wondered what he would have said, had I told him all that I remembered about the Senator's car that brought him to and from school. Unknown to Femi, his friends took delight in looking out for his father's car as it would always be full of the lovely Ayantuga girls, the driver having picked them up from school before coming for Femi.

To God be the glory, for it is a remarkable act of providence that after three odd decades of parting and only a few months from his departing this life, Femi would re-establish contact with many of his classmates, reminiscing about our times at King's College in memory of affections old and true!

As we mourn the loss of one of our own, may family members be comforted by the outpouring of love surrounding you all.

Yours sorrowfully,

For: KCOB Class of '81

Ibrahim L. Ciroma
Kaduna, Nigeria
August 8, 2015
August 8, 2015
On behalf my entire family, we wish to send our deepest sympathy to Busola and Lola and the entire Ayantuga family for this great loss. Losing a sibling is extremely difficult. May God comfort and give you the strength you need at this time. May his soul rest in perfect peace. He has left a great legacy and will therefore be always remembered. Ozege and Ebele
August 5, 2015
August 5, 2015
OMGoodness! I didn't think I'd be writing a tribute to you.....I remember thinking about you a few months ago, seeing Lola's pics and remembering our NHCarnival reunion; planning how to get in touch with your sisters & eventually linking up with you- my "school son" of many years ago! Words fail me right now, but I'm proud of you and the fine man you grew up to be...you'll forever have that special place in my heart...May God continue to comfort and strengthen the loved ones you left behind. Sleep on in the bosom of your Saviour till we ALL meet at His feet. Love you 'Femi & RIP. Nwene x
August 4, 2015
August 4, 2015
I loved your laugh Femi. I'll never forget it.

Your life, the love of your family and friends is a wonderful and fitting tribute to a good soul.

Floreat and rest in peace
August 3, 2015
August 3, 2015
Adieu Femi.
Fond memories from Sunnyfields. May the Lord comfort Bolajoko, other family members, friends and colleagues that are grieving at this time...
August 3, 2015
August 3, 2015
My Condolences and sympathy to your family and loved ones. May your soul rest peacefully.
August 3, 2015
August 3, 2015
Femi, you did us proud with your life. You were a star of the family. You did not die in vain. You did us proud with your life.You touched the life of those you came across you. Your life was well appreciated. We are going to miss. Please rest in perfect peace!
August 3, 2015
August 3, 2015
Dear Femi, Surely I shouldn't be doing this? It feels so wrong. I will miss you, but by all accounts no more than your friends and family that you've left behind in Minneapolis. From our days together at Addenbrookes hospital as struggling SHOs I knew you were destined for great things. You've certainly lived up to that career wise. But what I am truly in awe of, is the place you have in peoples hearts. So I sign up to the charge of keeping you alive in my heart. I will remember you Femi. And I will look after your Bolajoko, to the best of my ability. Rest secure dear friend.
August 3, 2015
August 3, 2015
Femi, I've been left speechless for the last few days. So many things running through my mind, so many memories, our short, brief conversations in-between our busy schedules. Thank You for being so supportive of me as a friend, husband and brother. It was such an honor to have you at JeNika and I's wedding. Lots of love from the deepest place in my heart. Goodnight my brother.
August 2, 2015
August 2, 2015
I am still so so shocked at the news of Femi's demise. Busola and I talked about him when we met the last time she was in Nigeria.

Great guy!!! My memories of Femi, are of the big brother in the house! Older than even Lola. The MAN! In the house!
The calm!!
The peace!!!
Busola and I talked about how special he is to Victoria and her siblings. To all the families as a whole. I truly was looking forward to at least talking to him one day when I am with Busola.
And now? He is gone. Has been snatched by death.
May his gentle, sweet and precious sole rest in perfect peace with the Lord and may the sweet sweet memories of him keep everyone strong.
August 2, 2015
August 2, 2015
Am speechless,everyone has said it all,you were always the perfect gentleman, from the day I met you as Bolajoko Ayantugas brother,my best friend's brother in Femi Ayantuga Close,Bolajoko you know I dint go to England but went to QC because of you, that's when I met your lovely brother who always cheered me on,always had a kind word to say and forever smiling, always ready to help.
You were loved by many and will surely be missed by many.May your gentle soul rest in peace.
August 2, 2015
August 2, 2015
He was a true gentleman and always a pleasure to work with. Such a tremendous loss.
August 2, 2015
August 2, 2015
So many "if onlys".... Dearest Femi....beloved brother uncle friend.... You will never be forgotten. It is still surreal and strange. Prayers for all your loved ones, that God will give them the strength to carry on.
August 2, 2015
August 2, 2015
My dear brother,

You were and remain an angel sent to touch all of our lives in some way.

I, for one, was better off knowing you on a daily basis as 11 - 16 year olds to occasional moments as we passed through lifestages to recently being more often in touch. Having last spoken only three days before, I wish we had more time to enjoy our rekindled brotherhood. Our KC class forum's mobile messaging discussions will not be the same without you. One less unique voice and one very much missed. Our big "50" Reunion next year 2016 will not be the same without you. One less unique presence and one very much irreplaceable. Alas!

Words are not always sufficient. I have dug out a photo of how I best remember you, taken in Earls Court on Saturday 3rd April 1982: serene, alert, amused, focused and fashionable. I will upload it here, if possible, as the site's features suggest.

May God rest your gentle and noble soul as well as bring comfort to your family, particularly Lola, Busola and Bola.

With great sadness and in tribute, I reluctantly bid you "Adieu!" and "Floreat!"

You shall never be forgotten.

Rest in peace.
August 2, 2015
August 2, 2015
Femi, you achieved a lot in your life time. A focused and well coordinated person. Well loved. God knows best. It is well.
August 2, 2015
August 2, 2015
Femi, thank you for showing us how to leave a legacy that will outlive our earthly presence. Such was your life. You will be sorely missed but we are grateful and all the better for having known you...
August 1, 2015
August 1, 2015
It was an honor to know Dr. Ayantuga while I previously worked at FSH. What a brilliant, professional, kind and gentle man. He will be missed by many. My deepest sympathy.
August 1, 2015
August 1, 2015
Wow... so sad. I recall our growing up years and seeing you again at your Mum's (Aunty Joke) burial.. Who knew that was going to be the last time... U were always cool, calm and collected often displayed impeccable grace, charm and good manners what I considered qualities of a true and decent gentleman. My thuts and prayers are with sis Lola, Busola and Bola at this very difficult time. Rest in peace Femi.
August 1, 2015
August 1, 2015
I never met Femi Ayantuga but I am really impressed by how quickly he achieved so much in so short period of his life. It is must be a thing of pride for his family to celebrate him even in death, such people are never mourned ... eternal rest grant him o lord
August 1, 2015
August 1, 2015
Lost for words at this time, my heart felt condolences to Bola and the family. I met Femi in 1977 and we very quickly became friends and brothers in KC, fond memories of him always from those days even though we only met intermittently over the years as study and work took us in different directions, a gentle, kind soul. Rest in Peace. Ibrahim
August 1, 2015
August 1, 2015
Femi, we laid you to rest yesterday. It felt as though it was someone else we were celebrating and I kept meaning to text you to tell you about the really nice event I was at. I know you have extremely high standards but I think you would have been very pleased with the way everything went. We celebrated your life. Everyone was sad and happy to have known you. The tributes were incredible. I knew you were amazing, but I didn't realise so many other people shared the same thoughts.

I will miss you so much my dearest brother. From day 1 I have loved you. "You were my North, my South, my East and West." You were always so protective over me and I know how much you loved me. My heart is broken into shattered pieces.

I am glad that I had so many chances to tell you that you were the best big brother any girl could ever ask for. I wish I had known that morning when we chatted for 2 hours that you were on your way home. I would have told you one last time that I knew how lucky I was to have you as my brother. I wish I could have had you for longer.

You are resting in a beautiful place Femi. You can watch the sails on the lake as they pass by in the summer, and wait for the flowers to blossom in the spring. Your winters will be shorter now.

I'd like to say: It is well. But it really isn't. However, I do know that God loves you very much. How can he not love someone as wonderful and kind and as good as you? He made you and wanted you back. That's fair I guess. So I know you are safe in his bosom. You can sleep plenty now.

Go well my beloved brother. Until we meet again at the pearly gates.

I love you Femi.
August 1, 2015
August 1, 2015
My dear Femi remember when I used you as practice for my foray into the culinary arts....surely a disaster but you never had a bad word to say. I did not see you for many years but reading these tributes I see that nothing about you changed, still kind, still considerate. Femi I am pained. Rest in perfect peace.
August 1, 2015
August 1, 2015
My dear Femi,

Where do I start? This is just totally unbelievable. I spoke about you just a week before your demise. Told a friend about how you gave me a stern talking to after I got my exam results. I was upset I missed out on a First Class degree and you told me I had every reason to be proud of what I had achieved. You were such a huge part of my life in England. I sought your counsel on numerous occasions - often before speaking to my immediate family.

We lost touch when you moved to the U.S. and I am so grateful we had the opportunity to link up again about 5 years ago. I will treasure the wonderful memories I have of you. You were such a warm, caring and incredibly witty gentleman who will be missed.

Rest in peace, Femi
August 1, 2015
August 1, 2015
Dr. Ayatuga was a great doctor and a great person. Well dressed, soft spoken, and attentive. Takes care of his patients and coworkers. Very dedicated. We lost a great person. God knows best and I guess He picks the best amongs us. Rest in Perfect peace! You will be missed. Praying for comfort for the siblings and the family!
August 1, 2015
August 1, 2015
Gone too soon!
May God, The Father, He who knew us before we were born (Jeremiah1: 5) Comfort the family and bless the soul of the departed.
Amen.
August 1, 2015
August 1, 2015
Dear Femi, this is one of the hardest things that I’m having to do….who would have thought our close childhood unit can become painfully torn apart.

As children, we looked forward to adulthood, career opportunities and prosperity, with the hope of celebrating our reunions and rekindling those memories. Sadly, life has cruelly shattered those dreams, at the cusp of your success and what we now have are the unforgettable memories.

I thank you for being in my life as a childhood friend and brother….you were such a blessing and will forever remain precious in my heart. May your gentle soul rest in peace. The quote below is apt, when I remember you.

“When you are sorrowful look again in your heart, and you shall see that in truth you are weeping for that which has been your delight.” – Kahlil Gibran
August 1, 2015
August 1, 2015
Femi, Femi, Femi... "sad and surreal" were the words you used to describe Alima's passing and those were the words that came to my mind when I bade you farewell yesterday at your beautiful funeral. I couldn't believe it. I must have gone over your iMessages and emails over and over again, including the last one you sent me on the day you passed on. If only I had known. If only we had known. But we didn't. You just slipped away.

You were very special Femi and you were my rock on the Board of CSR Children. Always there to give advice from mundane things like the lunch menu for our conference to securing our high profile Keynote Speaker; and you never missed a single Board meeting. I will miss our conversations about nothing and everything. You were a good friend and I thank God that we kept in touch these last 30 years.

My heart goes out to your siblings and your immediate family. They are heartbroken. We all are. But we hope that time will heal and that we can find comfort in the sweet memories of you - your kindness, your thoughtfulness, your caring nature - always giving.

Rest in perfect peace Femi. May God rest your soul and thanks for everything.

With much love, Toyin
July 31, 2015
July 31, 2015
Dr. Femi! Ahhhhhhh believe me I was looking forward to have you visit this summer. Your presence lit and spark up the house. So considerate and so calm like a river. Chaiiii! Who should I look forward to seeing, Dr. Femi ..........My Landlord!
July 31, 2015
July 31, 2015
You will be missed, I had the pleasure to work with you for over 10 years, you were compassionate, dedicated to your job, a mentor and a friend. I will miss your smile and your leadership. Rest in peace Obi.
July 31, 2015
July 31, 2015
A consummate professional, a willing collaborator, an outstanding physician and healer, and a ready hand in times of need, whose e-mails invariably began with the statement, "I hope you are well." We're all a little less 'well' today, Obi. You will be dearly missed!
July 31, 2015
July 31, 2015
I so sad to hear of your passing! I had the great pleasure working with you in Mora. You are an amazing Doctor and Friend! You will be missed greatly!! My sympathy to your Family and loved ones!
July 31, 2015
July 31, 2015
I first met Obi at my gym when I moved here in 1998. He was so kind and sweet and a real gentleman. We met here again at Southdale and he remained a sweet and loyal friend. He treated his coworkers and his patients with the utmost respect. I will miss our frequent conversations and his amazing smile. Heaven just got another angel...
July 31, 2015
July 31, 2015
What a tragic and painful loss. My sincere condolence to Bola on the death of her dearest brother who was an exceptional and brilliant mind, an inspiration to many.
July 31, 2015
July 31, 2015
I knew Dr Ayantuga through Fairview, first as a HUC that transcribed his orders, then as a Physician Recruiter that partnered with him to recruit Hospitalists. He was the most genuine, caring, and humble physicians I have ever met. He saw good in everyone and provided constant encouragement to follow your heart and bring your dreams to life. He has certainly left us too soon but left an indelible mark on us all!
July 31, 2015
July 31, 2015
My Condolences to the Family and Colleagues. There is no way to make Obi's passing "Softer". His Life and devotion to exellence is an example one could aspire to emulate. Take care my friend-one day we will meet at the crossroads.
July 31, 2015
July 31, 2015
My Condolences to the Family and Colleagues. There is no way to make Obi's passing "Softer". His Life and devotion to exellence is an example one could aspire to emulate. Take care my friend-one day we will meet at the crossroads.
July 31, 2015
July 31, 2015
You will be greatly missed by all of us who had the pleasure of working with you. A soft voice, and calm demeanor who made all comfortable. Seeing daily how much you cared for your patients and those under your charge. I will miss your wisdom and your kindness. Always treated everyone with respect. You were truly one of a kind. May you RIP and your loved ones find comfort.
July 31, 2015
July 31, 2015
I am still reeling from the news of your sudden departure. As I pen these words, I am transported back to Golders Green at the house where we visited with Busola, and you & Bola were home. We had so much fun with no cares in the world.
I am still hoping that someone would say it was a bad joke but alas, reading your obituary makes it real. O ye Oluwa. Aburo mi, sun re o.
July 30, 2015
July 30, 2015
Obi what can I say? You touched lives, you touched souls and healed bodies... I respected you as one of the most excellently consistent and dedicated physicians I have ever met... The quintessential gentleman physician... You will be missed. You will be missed! My condolences and sympathy to your family and loved ones. Adieu my friend.
July 30, 2015
July 30, 2015
My dear dear friend and brother, I cannot comprehend it all and NEVER will. But I am thankful that we shared a childhood together. You were and remained a thoroughly decent man , without blemish. Sweet memories but very very painful to say goodbye. I love you bro. Certain we will meet in heaven, Your friend and brother. Tim
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Recent Tributes
May 5
May 5
Hello Femi
Your beautiful daughter Ajoke is one today. What a blessing she is to us all and for your legacy. A really smart and kind, loving little girl full of character. She smiles like you and is ever so inquisitive. I know you are smiling down from heaven watching over her. You live on in our hearts and thank you so much for ensuring you left your legacy. Your daughter will live up to your name and will know all about her father with pride. God bless you my beloved brother.
I love you forever.
BJ xo
February 3
February 3
Obafemi, Papa Ajoke..happy birthday. Always on my mind. Spent a great part of yesterday reflecting and staring at pictures of your adorable daughter. She is growing up fast, lovely smile and temperament. We give glory to God that he sent her to us. Continue to rest in eternal peace my dear friend and brother. Miss you loads but Ajoke brings me much cheer. We shall meet on the day of Our Lord in Jesus Name. Amen

Recent stories

Floreat

August 6, 2015

To a fellow kingsman, I leave a tribute even though i am much younger than you and did not not meet you in KC and never met you in this life.  I have been amazed by your academic profile and initmidating CV.  You make us all feel like mere mortals.  I am sure you carried yourself with humility and dignity going by the tributes I have read.  You have left this world to early.  At a time Nigeria needs men like you of sound intelligence and dignity.  You are one of the the best and the brightest and I weep in anguish that your working experience hadn't impacted in Nigeria at this opportune time.  By taking a last degree in Public Health maybe you were anticipating a return to Nigeria to advise government!  Ah Ah sun re O omoluabi.  We love you but Jesus loves you more. 

Femi I can't believe you are not with us anymore

August 3, 2015

Femi I find it difficult to embrace the news.

I remember nearly 40 years ago in sunny fields when you & I excelled soo much in maths. You will come first mostly, I  mostly 2nd & there was 1 more person, whom I tacked with. We were so young. You were also so handsome & gentle. And we also lived next to each other & your sisters were lovely .Lola used to be my school mother in MG. How could you leave your so sudden without no notice. Sun re o. You will be greatly remembered o. Your legacy of excelling & hard work will live on. Lola, Busola, Bola & the rest of the family sorry o.May God uphold strengthen & sustain you all

July 31, 2015

I remember the summer, 2013, when i sat in your living room in Lagos as I prepared to leave for the US to do my MPH. Although it was the first and only meeting with you through Pamela, I felt comfortable sharing my concerns about relocating and you listened patiently. Thank you once again. You even shared that you would like to do an MPH despite your other degrees. I am glad you finally completed your MPH as you desired.

On the 29th of July, as I planned to call you to say, 'Doc, I'm rounding up my MPH and also passed my board exams', a call came from Pamela about your transition......
May your transition open new chapters in the lives of all that came across you especially your family.
I hope to meet you in heaven someday.


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