This archive report was first published on 17 July 2019.
On July 17, 2019, Kenyans gathered at Friends International Church in Nairobi to bid farewell to football icon Joe Kadenge.
Friends, family, and fans came together to celebrate Kadenge's life in a requiem mass, marking the beginning of his final journey.
After the mass, Kadenge's body was flown to Kisumu International Airport, where it was taken to his home for a final send-off.
Wendy, Kadenge's niece, delivered a heartfelt tribute, recalling the late footballer's love and care for her.
"I have been used to you calling me ‘your mother’ since I was young. Ohh how I miss this," Wendy said, reminiscing about Kadenge's affectionate nickname for her.
"Thanks for raising mum to whom she is. You being her father-taking her through school teaching her driving (rather, she stole your car and took a ride), how you would tell me all this in joy and laughter. l am forever grateful for being both a friend, a mentor, a motivator in my life a great uncle," she continued.
Wendy also shared how Kadenge's generosity and motivation had a lasting impact on her life, inspiring her to become a great nurse.
"It was amazing that you would tell mum how I have visited you even at your lowest you would remember me," she added, highlighting Kadenge's kind and thoughtful nature.
As Wendy bid farewell to her beloved uncle, she prayed for his peace and rest, saying, "As you enter a new place, I pray that you may find peace and rest. How I will miss your love and care for me. You forever are in my heart. Rest well my “son”, rest well in the Lord uncle!! Till we meet…"
