Ojoye Okello Akane

Ojoye Okello Akane, age 50, of Austin, Minnesota, passed away on Wednesday, March 4, 2026, at Mayo Clinic Hospital Rochester, Methodist Campus.

Ojoye was born in a small village in South Sudan. During the split of Sudan, he made his way to Kenya to avoid becoming one of the Lost Boys. At a young age, he began building a life for himself in Kenya, which eventually led to the opportunity to come to the United States.

Intelligence, wisdom, resilience, and grit are words that describe Ojoye. He was a man of many trades and a true people’s person. He loved unconditionally and always set aside his own needs to support the success of others—especially children, youth, and young adults in every community he was part of.

Ojoye embodied the message of the day he was born, June 20—World Refugee Day—and always believed in God as his refuge. He showed up wholeheartedly for those around him. Throughout his life, he accomplished many things, from owning shops in Kenya to helping families obtain the necessities they needed. No matter a person’s race, gender, or culture, Ojoye was always there to help. He never judged anyone. His spirit was kind, generous, and always willing to serve others.

Ojoye’s legacy lives on through the many people he impacted—from the communities of Mankato and Austin, to people across the United States and around the world. He is deeply loved and will be greatly missed by his wife, Achan; and his children, Jwokamer, Ajuda, Yiamino, Ochan, and Opiew; along with many other family, friends, and community members across the world.

The funeral service for Ojoye will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, March 21, 2026, at Faith Church in Austin. The visitation will take place from 5:30-7:00 p.m. on Friday, March 20, 2026, at Worlein-Hoff Funeral Home in Austin. A visitation will also be held from 10:00-11:00 a.m. on Saturday at the church. Interment will be in Oakwood Cemetery, Austin. Memorials will be used to support Ojoye’s family. Worlein-Hoff Funeral Homes of Austin are assisting the family with arrangements.