Professor Leonzio Angole Onek was a loving husband, a brilliant scholar, supporter of education, and a father who always wanted the best for his children.

He studied hard in his school years, and in the face of adversity, earned a place to study his undergraduate degree at the University of Dublin. Furthermore, he went on to read Philosophy in the Department of Biological Sciences, masters and PhD at the University of Lancaster, where he became a Doctor.

His passion for science effervesced into the lives of his family. Angela Onek, who always supported him in his academic and political career, gave him Petra babysitting duties, and he took her to the lab! Her incessant question-asking, lead him to hand her an oversized lab coat, goggles and disposable gloves, and show her the magic of differential centrifugation, to her child-like delight!

It was his ability to impart knowledge, and spark interest that lead Petra to study Biology and Chemistry to Advanced level, inspired Geraldine to become a teacher, Naomi to complete her university studies in Edinburgh, and William to follow so closely in his footsteps, and earn his own Biomedical Sciences degree.

After a turbulent few years, including a stretch of time where he was politically detained, it became apparent that his health had deteriorated. He was admitted to hospital with liver problems. He was discharged, only for these symptoms to become aggressive and he returned to hospital in May, where he never left.

After misdiagnoses, Judith Onek by his side, and his young family, Joel, Moira, Beatrice and Kuc, balancing studies at the University of Nairobi and school in Egerton, with caring for their father, Liver Cancer was found to be the cause. It finally took his life on the 9th July 2019; South Sudan's Independence Day.

Our goal is to raise funds to support his funeral arranges and medical expenses incurred. Your generous contributions will be highly appreciated and we thank you for your support in advance.