Esakakondo Alphonse Lohese

Esakakondo Alphonse Lohese 4/4/1954 - 6/5/2025 Saint Louis Park, Minnesota It is with deep sorrow and love that we announce the passing of Esakakondo Alphonse Lohese, who departed this life on Thursday, June 5, at the age of 71 in Saint Louis Park, MN, after a courageous battle with ALS. Born on April 4, 1954, in the Territoire de Katako-Kombe, Village Omotomba, Democratic Republic of Congo. Alphonse was the beloved son of Jean Omotomba Kombelemba and Ometanga Washema. From an early age, Alphonse's brilliance stood out-his teachers quickly recognized his sharp mind and deep curiosity. He consistently ranked at the top of his class, graduating with the highest GPA. Though awarded a government scholarship to attend medical school, Alphonse chose instead to pursue agriculture, driven by a deep desire to serve the rural communities of Congo-those often overlooked by national leadership. He earned a bachelor's degree in Agronomy from the University of Yangambi in 1978. After graduating, he worked in Mbuji Mayi, teaching students and working for UNICEF. He later moved to Kinshasa to work for the DRC's Department of Agriculture. In the late 1980s, Alphonse was given the opportunity to come to the United States to continue his education. He began by attending an institute for international students, where he studied English alongside peers from around the world. As part of the program, he traveled with his classmates to California, where he experienced American culture firsthand-visiting Universal Studios, Disneyland, and other iconic landmarks. His deep commitment to learning and sustainable agriculture led him to pursue a master's degree in Agriculture from The Ohio State University. Alphonse's academic journey culminated in a PhD in Land and Atmospheric Science from the University of Minnesota. While pursuing his doctoral studies, he conducted research in Sankuru, DRC, bringing back samples for analysis and publishing articles detailing his findings. His passion for education and the land eventually led him to become a professor at L'Université Notre Dame de Tshumbe in the DRC, where he aimed to educate a new generation of students and help restore the region's agricultural vitality. He was known for his vibrant presence, unwavering strength, and relentless drive - qualities that left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him. A devoted husband, father, brother, and friend, Alphonse was deeply committed to his family, community, and education. He also found joy in bringing people together, often hosting gatherings at his home filled with music, laughter, and community. He took pride in perfecting his basement sound system, where he spent countless hours immersed in music and watching films. He loved recording his favorite shows on DVR-especially National Geographic programs and historical documentaries-and had an expansive, well-loved collection of VHS tapes and DVDs. He treasured time spent with family and his grandchildren and dedicated much of his energy to impactful work in Tshumbe and various projects at the University of Minnesota. His large presence brought comfort and encouragement to those around him. A man of great stature and even greater heart, Alphonse leaves a legacy of learning, generosity, and love. He will be missed immensely by all who had the honor of knowing him. He is survived by his wife of 42 years, Alice; his children - Jean, Medi, Ehadi, and Opema - and his grandchildren, Aleenah, Luka, Logan, and L'or-est-la. He is also survived by his mother, Ometanga Washema; siblings - Shimba Charlotte, Nsumbe Michel, Alomba Jeanne, Okito Jean, Komemba Cesar, Ombala Benjamin, Domba Dolly, Pametoy Albert, and Konde Darius, along with many other cherished family members in the United States and the Democratic Republic of Congo. He was preceded in death by his father, Jean Omotomba Kombelemba, and his siblings Kangawodja, Okenda Antoine, and Omotomba Jean. Visitation from 4 PM to 7 PM, Friday, June 20th, at Washburn-McReavy Edina Chapel, 5000 West 50th Street, Edina, MN A viewing and funeral service will be held on Saturday, June 21st at Annunciation Church, 509 W 54th St, Minneapolis, MN 55419. The viewing will take place from 9:30-10:30 AM, followed immediately by the funeral service at 10:30 AM. Burial will take place at 1:00 PM at Lakewood Cemetery, 3600 Hennepin Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55408. A reception will follow the burial at St. Boniface Church, 629 NE 2nd St, Minneapolis, MN 55413. Friends and loved ones are invited to join the family in honoring and celebrating his life. Flowers can be sent to Annunciation Church at the address above, and donations to support the family can be made via CashApp: $ChristelleDavid Venmo: @ChristelleDavid1 Zelle: Ehadi Lohese - 952-454-8694 Arrangements with Washburn-McReavy Edina Chapel, 952-920-3996 www.Washburn-McReavy.com

Tributes

Esakakondo Alphonse Lohese

April 4, 1954 - June 5, 2025

Tributes

Esakakondo Alphonse Lohese

April 4, 1954 - June 5, 2025

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