Bolgatanga: 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. His remarks followed the burial of the late Pastor John Azundem Apaak, which took place during a funeral service on February 3, 2026, at the GNAT Hall in Bolgatanga, before the late pastor was laid to rest at Dorninga in the Builsa South District.
According to Ghana Web, Pastor Anaba expressed that 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. "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," he stated. He added that "the late John Apaak left a legacy of hope for the region."
Pastor Anaba further disclosed that he accepted the role of chief mourner at the funeral following a personal request from the wife of the late pastor, highlighting 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.
The tribute by the children of the late pastor highlighted his presence in their adult lives and marriages. They noted that their spouses felt comfortable confiding in him, as 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," the children expressed.
They also recalled his constant calls, sharing that he would often call just to hear their voices. They asked with emotion, "Who will call just to hear our voices? Who will caution and give us guidance?"
The tribute recounted the final hours before his death on November 4, 2025, noting that Clement had visited him the previous evening. "You even prayed for him and walked him to his car," they remembered, adding that he joked about being strong and walking daily for exercise. His sudden passing hours later came as a shock to the family.
As Professor Daniel Apaak broke down in tears while reading the tribute, Dr Clement Apaak stepped forward to complete it, visibly moving the 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 concluded. "Baba, we miss you, but God loves you more. Rest well till we meet again."