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.

Born on June 20 in a small village in South Sudan, Ojoye came of age during the turbulent split of Sudan. He made his way to Kenya to avoid becoming one of the Lost Boys and, at a young age, began building a life for himself there. That foundation eventually opened the door for him to immigrate to the United States.

Intelligence, wisdom, resilience, and grit defined Ojoye. A man of many trades and a true people’s person, he loved unconditionally and consistently placed the needs of others before his own—especially children, youth, and young adults in every community he touched. His life reflected the spirit of World Refugee Day, the day he was born. He placed his trust in God as his refuge and showed up wholeheartedly for those around him. From owning shops in Kenya to helping families secure life’s necessities, Ojoye extended kindness and practical support to people of every race, gender, and culture without judgment. His generous, serving spirit left a lasting mark.

Ojoye’s legacy lives on through the many lives he touched across Mankato, Austin, the United States, and around the world. He is deeply loved and will be greatly missed by his wife, Achan; his children, Jwokamer, Ajuda, Yiamino, Ochan, and Opiew; and by his extended family, friends, and community members across the globe.