Fred VanDyck - Rest In Peace

Posted on Ghanaweb:

We regret to announce the passing of our brother and father Mr Fred Bagyena VanDyck, which sad event occurred on the 23rd of August 2009 in Ghana. A memorial service will be held in his honour on Saturday the 10th of October 2009 at the Roxeth Green Free Church, Coles Crescent, South Harrow London HA2 0TN from 6pm to 9pm. All friends and sympathisers are invited.

When I got the text message from Mariama informing me of the death of Fred, I just could not beleive it. I actually missed her text by a day; so I quickly called her and she confirmed her text to me the previous day. I then started firing questions to her, left right and center. What happened? Where was he when he died? How did it happen? The questions we so many, and yet she hardly knew much detail herself. My immediate thoughts went to Andrea. She practically worshiped the ground her Dad walked on.
I rung Tae in Ghana, thinking that he hadn't heard the news (Tae went to University Of Science and Technology with Fred, and knew him quite well)...Tae said he knew of Fred's death. he actually went out with Fred the friday night before his death.
The Memorial service was held, as mentioned, at the Roxeth Green Free Church. The drive from Wellingborough to Harrow was a pleasant one. Being the person that I am, we got to the church with 2 minutes to spare. The service started on time, however I noted with annoyance, how other Ghanaians were turning up late. How could they? Oh well, some Ghanaians will always be Ghanaians. I saw familiar faces I had not seen in several years. Halem, Oriana's son, has nor grown into a man, with all his "side-burns". Sardia was there too. I hadnt seen her for while now. I did manage to get her mobile phone number. Then there was Orina. I thought she has gone back to Ghana. Obviously not. Then it suddenly dawned upon me. We only get to see ourselves when someone has passed away. Now this is sad, really really sad. I mentioned my observations to Sena, and he immediately agreed with me. But thats life isnt it.....friends are always busy running after money and therefore have no time to meetup and have a meal together.

Fred, rest in peace my good friend