Book of Memories for Victor Baker Teye Sr.

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Sun, 13 Sep 2015 09:11:54 EDT

Dr. Teye performing in Austria with students of IMC Krems' Bachelor program in Music Therapy.

Condolence From Max Schachner

Sun, 13 Sep 2015 09:05:21 EDT

Over more than a decade it was the highlight of the academic year at IMC University of Applied Sciences Krems (Austria) when "Dr. Teye" (as hundreds of enthusiastic students respectfully addressed him) and "our Victor" (as professors and staff warmly welcomed him) arrived in Austria to teach many local and international tourism majors. But he also took numerous "ASU Sun Devils" on their summer schools to Vienna and its neighbouring cities to make them appreciate the destinations and understand the travel industry in a most lively field approach. I personally had the privilege to work with Victor in Austria, Arizona, Australia and Fidji, get inspired by his insight and professionalism but also enjoy his great hospitality and friendship. His academic rigour in teaching and research ("you have to `walk the walk´ and not only `talk the talk´!"), his global mindset, empathy, tolerance and respectfulness, and witty analyses enriched numerous encounters. Grief and sorrow not feeling his handshakes and hugs any longer are mitigated by deep gratitude having had "brotha" Victor as a dear colleague and sincere friend. His warm smile and contagious laughter will stay in our memories and continue to spread positive vibrations over our campus forever. Thank you - herzlichen Dank!

Condolence From Michael Reiner

Thu, 10 Sep 2015 06:27:22 EDT

Rest in peace Victor. It was a please to know you as a colleague and friend at the IMC. You will always be in my memory as a friendly and student centred lecturer that gave so much to all the people around you.

Condolence From Mr and mrs Orlando Taylor

Sat, 05 Sep 2015 10:53:25 EDT

Teye family Otulo our heats go out to you and your family may god continue to bless you during this period of grief

Memorial Candle lit by Roberta MacDonald

Fri, 04 Sep 2015 14:36:36 EDT

Earnhardt Ford

Condolence From Chris Kaufman

Fri, 04 Sep 2015 12:37:34 EDT

I volunteer for an organization called Can Care. We match newly diagnosed cancer patients with volunteers with the similar cancer, for me it was prostate cancer. Over a year ago I was assigned Victor. Although I live in Oklahoma, I traveled to MDAnderson Houston for treatment and became acquainted with Victor. We both traveled internationally and had other issues in common. I would see him on my treatment trips to Houston and we soon became fast friends. We would discuss our treatments, our families, our side effects, what to watch out for in treatment. We would laugh together, we would pray together, cry together, discuss treatment together, discuss the end together. When he moved back to Phoenix I didn't see him again. I wish I had known him longer, and had become closer to him. He was a good man, he was a strong man, someone I would have enjoyed knowing longer and better. He put up a good fight, and I will miss him. Chris

Condolence From Korlekuor John-Teye

Fri, 04 Sep 2015 12:31:17 EDT

Nothing prepares one for the loss of a loved one and I am deeply saddened by the news of uncle victor's passing.I am however thankful for the gift of life God gave us in My uncle Victor; that I had the opportunity to take counsel from his wisdom and experience and also take inspiration from his achievements. I take comfort in knowing that you are in a far better place, resting in the arms of our Lord. Till we meet again, Rest in perfect peace Prof. Victor B Teye.

Story shared: A distinguished professor and friend

Fri, 04 Sep 2015 08:27:20 EDT

I had the pleasure of first meeting Dr. Victor Teye at Arizona State University as a student in his travel and tourism class. Being from West Africa (born in Ghana and raised in Liberia), Dr. Victor Teye and I connected immediately. It was a privilege and honor to be taught by such a distinguished and accomplished professor. But not only was I blessed to have known Dr. Teye as a professor, I also came to know him as a very close family friend through his daughter Otuko.You see, I first met Otuko 20+ years ago in her father's class. I remember the day she arrived......looking so regal! Unbeknown to the both of us, Dr. Teye had already put a plan in motion (so to speak) to connect us in hopes that a friendship would develop. Not only did we hit it off well, but with a foundation of 20+ years, I can say Otuko is my best friend in the whole, wide world and we have Dr. Victor Teye to thank for it all. Dr. Teye was also a very kind and giving man. I remember more than one occassion where I would call Dr. Teye to pick his brain about this topic or that topic, and although I sensed he was extremely busy, he would always make time to talk and impart sage advice. A great light has been dimmed in this world with the passing of Dr. Victor Teye, but I know he is shining brightly in heaven above. May his soul rest in peace in the arms of our Lord and Savior. I pray God's comfort surrounds his Loved Ones in this sorrowful time and that they are encouraged by God's word that says in Isaiah 41: 10..."So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." My condolences to all on your loss.

Condolence From Desmond O. Brown

Thu, 03 Sep 2015 23:38:37 EDT

I write with great sadness over the unimaginable loss of a friend, colleague, confidante and brother, Dr. Victor B. Teye who I fondly called “Big Brother Victor” I first met Victor in 1997 soon after I graduated from Virginia Tech. During my Dissertation research earlier, I was searching for previous studies on Tourism Development in Africa when I stumbled upon his seminal work on tourism development in Ghana (1988), published in a premier journal in the field – The Annals of Tourism Research. I immediately contacted him to let him know how impressed I was with his writing and research that I wanted to be like him when I grew up. Within a very short time of mentoring, we not only became colleagues but bosom friends. He was instrumental in my career development path over the past 20 years through having me accompany him to present papers at conferences in Ghana Botswana, Bermuda among other countries, followed by hosting me and my family for a month during the PANAFEST festival in Ghana in 2000. To top it all, he was instrumental in having me succeed him as a Fulbright Fellow at the Department of Geography and Tourism, University of Cape Coast during the 2002/2003 academic year – shoes that were not easy for me to fill. Today Dr. Teye’s professional legacy lives on. The last time I checked the current head of the department and at least 3 other senior lecturers are some of the students he mentored. Our relationship grew tremendously from acquaintance to friendship over the years and I came to discover that brother Victor was a complete man. He exhibited qualities of honesty, loyalty, sincerity and sense of purpose. We chatted a lot about many issues and we tried to stay in touch from anywhere we are in the world. During his illness, he always sounded positive on the phone and tried to allay my fears of concern for his health by telling me he was doing fine. He sent me a WhatsApp on July 21st during my visit to Sierra Leone wishing me well and asking when I was returning. I replied back stating I would be back on August 12th. When I contacted him upon my return he did not answer his phone but I left him a voice message to say I was back. Little did I know that he was gone to the great beyond until I got the phone call to the effect. I believe Shakespeare may have been referring to Victor in his play Hamlet when he said: “What a piece of work is man! How noble in reason! How infinite in faculty! In form, in moving, how express and admirable! …” Brother Victor, sleep and take your rest while reminding all of us that there is only one certainty in life - that is DEATH. It will come when it should come and not before. May you find everlasting peace in the world beyond! I hope our paths will cross again in Heaven. Amen! Your friend and brother, Desmond O. Brown. September 3, 2015. Associate Professor of Tourism University of Kentucky

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Thu, 03 Sep 2015 22:39:40 EDT

Always an adventure, herding sheep through town, 2004

Story shared: Until We Meet Again

Thu, 03 Sep 2015 21:33:27 EDT

I am so touched to read the many stories of Victor’s family and adventures in Ghana. Although I never knew him in those days, I have had the privilege of seeing him smile and hearing him laugh for the last 25 years. I watched him dart in and out of the country, often arriving back in Phoenix late the night before he was to start a new class. Jet lag never slowed him down, always ready for his new students and his new adventures. One time I asked him about his grading grading policy and what he would do if a student was wavering between an ‘A’ and a ‘B’. He said, “they have to earn the ‘A’, I don’t give any breaks”. I told him he was tough but little did I know at the time how very tough he was and that he wasn't going to get any breaks even though we prayed for them.

My story is of his last challenge in life, his cancer. I remember our lunch at Pure Foods in Kierland, the day he told me he had severe backache, spots on his lungs and an elevated PSA. I begged him not to return to Ghana the next day but to stay in Phoenix as I told him he could possibly have a serious problem, perhaps a cancer lurking. He, the invincible one, felt certain all would be fine in Ghana, which of course it was not. I searched for him for months, no answer to his phone or email. I used to kid him that he could run but he couldn’t hide; I would always find him. Eventually, I indeed found him in the ICU in Houston having survived his transport from Ghana and months of radiation, chemotherapy and life support in Houston. Thank the Lord for Otuko, his rescuer.

Here is his story of determination, bravery, love for his children, and the will to live. Victor couldn’t walk as the tumor in his spinal column paralyzed his nerves, yet he sat up with help and went to physical therapy everyday, enduring the intense pain, determined to walk again. When he couldn’t walk, he made himself walk. When the pain was unbearable he bore the pain. When told that his cancer was incurable, he determined to live. He and Otuko took charge of his path, researching all therapies, all drugs, all possibilities for improvement. He tried every single possible course of chemotherapy, proven or experimental, all as cheerfully as any patient I have ever known. He reported every single shrinking of the tumors as encouragement. He told me he had no idea how his body could handle the amount of poisons that were pumped into his body to kill the cancer cells. He went to the library to keep his mind sharp, he went to the gym to stay strong, he continued to laugh at my teasing about how cute he was since he ‘shaved his hair’. He said don’t laugh when he told me how he got stuck in a wheelchair at Walmart in the men’s room when the battery ran out. Of course I thought it was horribly hilarious. I gave him no breaks, determined to get him to laugh each time we talked. He was an inspiration. I told him that he should write a book to help others find their way. I said, ‘If I ever have to walk in your shoes, I only pray that I will be as strong and determined.’

As you all know, Victor was a planner. He planned for years and years for his retirement in Ghana. He planned for his grants to continue his work after retirement; he planned for a long life. A few weeks ago, we had lunch again at the Talking Stick resort. He reported that he was to see his doctor to decide whether to stop his chemotherapy. I teased him about the different styles of canes he used to assist his walking, told him to ‘loose the hat’; I loved him without it. I could see in his eyes how much pain and suffering he was enduring. As we parted, he said, ‘I always loved you Susan, take care until we meet again!’ I said, ‘Victor, I always loved you too’, knowing full well that this was the end. He knew that I knew because he was a planner.

Victor, we all loved you - me, my children, (Heather and Ryan), my grandson, (Jabari), your students, your devoted family, your fellow professors, your students, all those you touched in this life. My friend, indeed, until we meet again!

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Thu, 03 Sep 2015 20:04:11 EDT

Enjoying some Coconuts together in Accra

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Thu, 03 Sep 2015 20:04:11 EDT

Dr. Teye and I at a GHACLAD tourism conference in Accra,1998

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Thu, 03 Sep 2015 20:04:10 EDT

Waiting to order lunch at a local restaurant in Accra in 1999

Condolence From Fadi Rasheed

Thu, 03 Sep 2015 19:00:15 EDT

My condolences to the Teye family. I'm truly sorry for your loss. But remember your loss is Heavens gain and heaven just received another angel. I'm sure he is in a much better place then anyone of us are now.God bless you all!! " We all belong to God and to him we shall return." Your brother Fadi

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Thu, 03 Sep 2015 12:44:13 EDT

Condolence From Tribute from Dr. Mohamed Ibn Chambas to Prof. Victor Teye (TARRA)

Thu, 03 Sep 2015 10:29:04 EDT

It is with a heavy heart that I learned of the sad demise of my dear friend Victor, affectionately called TARRA by those of us who have known him since our secondary school days in Ghana. Yes, that’s how long my friendship with Victor stretches back; as far back as 1969 to be precise. Over the years our bond of friendship has continued to grow to the point where I consider Victor as more than a friend, but, indeed, a brother. Upon completion of the University of Ghana we both came to North America to pursue further studies, and remained in communication as often as the hectic life of North America would permit. However, over the past ten years the fraternal relations have been rekindled and grown even stronger as we have visited each other regularly in Phoenix, New York, Abuja, and Accra. These rendezvous were always fond occasions to catch up and reminisce about ‘the good old days’ in Ghana. It is painful to know that I will no longer have the pleasure of sharing those happy moments with Victor again as death has laid its icy hands on him. Victor left behind a legacy we should all celebrate. He came to America to seek academic laurels. He exceeded all expectations by attaining tenured professorship and becoming one of the leading experts in his field of Tourism Studies. Victor’s classes at ASU were always oversubscribed, his classes were popular as he was an accomplished lecturer admired by his students and respected by his peers. He was always professional, disciplined, research-oriented and highly knowledgeable in his image. He cut an impressive image for Africans and Americans of Color by the high standards he set himself and lived by. On a visit to me in Abuja, Nigeria where I was President of the ECOWAS Commission, he undertook to formulate a sub-regional tourism policy for West Africa. He spent his two-week vacation doing so and bequeathed to ECOWAS its current framework for harmonization and cooperation in the tourism industry. Victor was also mindful of his ‘giving back’ to his native country, Ghana. In that regard, he made an invaluable contribution to the Ministry of Tourism of Ghana in its infancy and to the formulation of the country’s tourism policy. Additionally, he was instrumental in the establishment of the undergraduate, and especially, the graduate program in Tourism at the University of Cape Coast, Ghana. He was, in fact, in the process of setting up similar programs at the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA) Accra, Ghana when he suddenly took ill and had to be medically evacuated to the United States. Even as he underwent medical treatment, he kept looking forward to when he would go back to Ghana to realize this last dream of his at GIMPA. Talk of commitment and dedication to study. As a person, Victor was charming, affable, easygoing and a pleasure to be with. He was a good man; an honest man of integrity who could be counted upon. Victor was a loyal and trusted friend I shall dearly miss. In Yuma, I introduced him to my brother Dr Alhaji Adam Tahiru who is with you today on my behalf and they became intimate friends. As we mourn his tragic passing away, I wish to express my deepest condolences to his immediate and extended family for such an irreparable loss. Our thoughts are with them at this moment of grief and sorrow. My condolences also go to the Elders and members of the Ghanaian community of Phoenix of which he was an eminent and illustrious role model for many years. I also commiserate with the ASU community for the loss of a distinguished professor who rendered meritorious service to the University in diverse ways over the years. May God give us all the courage and strength to bear the painful loss, for indeed we have lost a loving husband, a caring father, an adoring colleague, a trusted friend, an excellent scholar and a proud son of Ghana and Africa. May God grant him eternal rest. Dr. Mohamed Ibn Chambas Special Representative of the UN Secretary General, Head of the UN Office for West Africa Dakar, Senegal. West Africa

Condolence From James Wood

Wed, 02 Sep 2015 21:03:35 EDT

Dear Tara, Why do you have to leave so soon. Praying for your soul.You peaceful and humble gentleman. May the good Lord mercifully receive you into eternity.Rest In Peace my friend. ITU WOOD,ACCRA

Story shared: Dr Teye - My Tourism Inspiration

Wed, 02 Sep 2015 15:54:33 EDT

When I first came to ASU, I was a lost freshman looking for some sort of sign as to “what I should do with my life” or what major I should chose. I first started at the business school, and at the start of my 2^nd semester I was told I needed to make a decision as to what “type” of business I wanted to study. This is when I randomly chose Tourism Management and Development, and my only reasoning was because of my love for travel and learning about new destinations.

It was the beginning of sophomore year when I was in one of Dr. Timothy’s classes, where I was handed a brochure on the winter session in Dubai with Dr. Teye. After convincing my parents, I couldn’t wait until New Years Day to depart with my other colleagues and Dr. Teye to Dubai. My entire experience in Dubai was unforgettable – from the information and knowledge we learned from Dr. Teye in the classroom, to the social experiences, to the site-visits of the beautiful locations near and far. This was also the location where I took one of my hardest Tourism classes – International Tourism – with Dr. Teye. I will never forget having to take a quiz and memorize all of the African countries and their capitals! Something I never thought I’d be able to do but with Dr. Teye’s instruction, anything seemed possible.

It was towards the end of our amazing winter abroad when Dr. Teye told me about his summer program going to Australia and Fiji. I instantly said “I’m in!” and couldn’t wait for the next semester to be over so I could go to Australia and Fiji with some more great students from ASU and Dr. Teye. The program in Australia and Fiji was just as magical. We learned so much from Dr. Teye while also being able to have some of the most fun in our lives – like bungee jumping, visiting the Great Barrier Reef, and more. However, one of the most unforgettable experiences I had was when I was able to celebrate my 20^th birthday in Australia on one of our last nights. Dr. Teye helped us arrange a double decker bus and made sure I was going to have one of the best nights of my life. Dr. Teye and his beautiful wife, Anna, gave me a birthday card and sent us on our night out. It was truly, truly unforgettable.

Once I got back from both of these trips, I knew that Tourism was exactly the place I was meant to be. Dr. Teye always expressed his willingness to help me personally as well. He encouraged my fellow classmates and I to come to his office hours to help us with our resumes for internships and future jobs. His door was always open for us. Dr. Teye helped open my eyes to the world and to the different aspects that affect all of us before, during, and after traveling. He inspired me to go to places I would never think to go, and to learn things that I thought were beyond my boundaries. Since my double study abroad’s with Dr. Teye, I have graduated with my Bachelors Degree from Arizona State and have recently (as of this month) completed my Masters with Arizona State University in Sustainable Tourism. If it weren’t for that brochure being passed to me in Dr. Timothy’s class, I don’t know where I would be today. Dr. Teye helped me get there and I am so thankful for those moments I was able to spend with him that inspired me to be where I am today. I will never forget Dr. Teye and what he did for me during my time at Arizona State. I am so thankful.

Story shared: Dues Well Paid

Wed, 02 Sep 2015 13:44:50 EDT

I was most priviledged to be a part of the pioneering tourism undergraduate class that Prof. Teye taught at the University of Cape Coast in 1996.

Prof left a very deep impression on all 14 of us. He was always referred to with awe and a deep sense of respect for his intellectual prowess. His time conciousness, hardwork and most importantly, willingness to shape the thinking process will forever be missed.

Prof, you have paid your dues to tourism education in Ghana and i guess the best tribute we can give to your memory is to continue in the footsteps you left.... if we can.

Sleep well...

Kwaku Boakye

Department of Hospitality and Touirsm Management

UCC

Memorial Candle lit by

Wed, 02 Sep 2015 12:50:49 EDT

Marilyn H. Johnson

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Wed, 02 Sep 2015 12:48:47 EDT

Krems

Condolence From Tribute from Faculty in the School of Community Resources and Development, Arizona State University (ASU)

Wed, 02 Sep 2015 12:48:29 EDT

“Victor Teye is truly one of a kind. There aren’t many people on this planet who are as graceful, kind, selfless, full of integrity and completely awesome as Victor B. Teye. Those of us who were honored to know him and graced by his presence in our lives will forever remember this kind gentleman. He was one of the first Africanists and African-Americans in the field of tourism studies, a pioneer and absolute trendsetter. He was a prolific social scientist, who helped the academic community understand the effects of poverty, underdevelopment and political instability not only on the flow of global travelers, but also on the wellbeing of communities everywhere. His research record and academic prowess were extremely influential, and he developed a serious following of devoted admirers throughout his illustrious academic career. Dr. Teye’s devotion to students was unmatched. He absolutely adored teaching and sharing his wealth of knowledge. From a workplace perspective, he lived for his students, and his greatest pleasure was teaching them about the world around them, guiding them to unforgettable places and life-changing experiences. This exemplary teacher and mentor devoted his entire self to teaching, and thousands upon thousands of former students will forever be blessed by having known him. Indeed, his academic and personal legacy will live on for generations to come. He was a consummate teacher, scholar, colleague and friend. Working with Dr. Teye was the privilege of a lifetime. We are grateful for his lasting influence in the School of Community Resources and Development and Arizona State University. We are honored to have called him one of our own, and we will miss him tremendously. On behalf of the faculty in the School of Community Resources and Development, Arizona State University (ASU) Dallen J. Timothy (collrague, Friend and “Brother from another Mother”

Condolence From Eugene Jonh-Teye

Wed, 02 Sep 2015 12:46:53 EDT

Uncle Victor, as I affectionately called him was a very kind person and a generous man and always gave me lots of presents when he came down to Ghana from abroad. Whenever he was in abroad, he would call and my father would address him saying ''bro Professor, big Professor from the small town called Lolonya”. I remember in 2009 when I was in kindergarten and uncle Victor was in Arizona teaching in the ARIZONA STATE UNIVERSIT (ASU), He called on day and asked my dad what he would like as a present from him (uncle Victor) and asked my mom and he asked me what I liked and I said I wanted a VTECH LEARNING LAPTOP. When he came down to Ghana from Abroad, he brought exactly what we said we wanted and since my mom was a caterer she prepared lots of local dishes and my mom said it was in return for his presents. Uncle Victor would go back to abroad and would visit us and go back, come back and visit us and go back and on one of his returns to abroad he stayed for so long that I asked my dad, When will uncle Victor come? I asked and asked my dad… Finally a call came and itt was uncle Victor! Hurray when he came he visited us and stayed in Ghana for some time and suddenly fell sick. His daughter Otuko came and took him to abroad. I and my parents were praying for his recovery when one day a call came and said uncle Victor had answered his maker's call! Uncle Victor, I shall miss you dearly Uncle Victor, yaa wo gzobann Uncle Victor, see you on the resurrection day.

Memorial Candle lit by

Wed, 02 Sep 2015 12:45:11 EDT

Marilyn H. Johnson

Condolence From Marilyn H. Johnson

Wed, 02 Sep 2015 12:41:42 EDT

Thank you Dr, Teye, for allowing me to be part of your life and to be your friend. You taught me so many wonderful things, and for that I will be eternally grateful. You will be in my heart forever. I miss you so much. Rest in peace my beautiful friend, rest in peace. Marilyn

Condolence From Sanjay K. Nepal

Wed, 02 Sep 2015 11:30:12 EDT

Though I met you only once (at the AAG), I am familiar with your work and of your family via Dallen who spoke about you with great admiration. This is truly a major loss not just for the academic community but also for people who believe in love, friendship, family and good human spirit. May your soul rest in peace.

Story shared: More than a friend

Wed, 02 Sep 2015 09:28:43 EDT

I first met Victor in Accra, Ghana, through Anna and we became firm friends, but he was more than that to me as I regarded him as my brother.

Over the years we shared great memories, in Ghana, Germany and in Arizona.

Sadly, I lost touch with him and I regret not having contact for many years. I heard that he was ill and I prayed for him but I never expected him to die. I thought he was invincible !

A man of honour, great teacher, loving father, caring friend with a fabulous sense of humour !

Gone too soon my brother. Rest in peace. God bless.

Heartfelt sympathy to his family.

Photo shared: Prof..jpg

Wed, 02 Sep 2015 08:40:07 EDT

Prof. Teye and his first cohort of Tourism Students from the University of Cape Coast at Kakum National Park. Thank you very much. You are sorely missed

Condolence From Dr. Vern Biaett

Wed, 02 Sep 2015 05:38:26 EDT

I never had a class or worked on a project with Victor, we were just guys who passed in the hall. Not sure how it developed, but somehow we became friends who would always take a few minutes that would stop and talk, update, congratulate, and share. I loved seeing Victor coming down the hall with his big smile because I knew my day was going to be instantly brighter.

Story shared: Thank You!

Wed, 02 Sep 2015 02:35:15 EDT

I remember sitting in class during the spring semester of my freshman year at ASU reading a flyer about a summer study abroad program to Bermuda organized by Dr Teye. Little did I know then, reading over that piece of paper, the profound impact that Victor would have on my life. He introduced me to the field of tourism, and academia, for which I am extremely grateful. He was truly a great educator, and I attribute my success as an academic and educator to the lessons I learned first hand as his student, Teaching Assistant, and colleague. Over the years I was fortunate to travel with him on his study abroad programs to Austria/Holland, Australia/Fiji, and the Caribbean. I was always amazed at how much time and effort he put into organizing these trips, going above and beyond, spending his summer and winter breaks, to provide his students with their once in a lifetime experience. Writing this I can't help but reminisce about our adventures together. The last time I saw Victor, we enjoyed a beach bbq at the beach in Ghana, where I brought my own students on the study trip from Dubai. I know I was but one of the tens of thousands of students and colleagues around the world who's life was impacted by Dr Teye and who will share my sadness in his passing, yet find comfort in the shared memories and his spirit that continues on. Good bye Dr Teye, and Thank You!

Condolence From Gladys Odoi

Tue, 01 Sep 2015 23:12:38 EDT

A little tribute true and tender, Just to show that we remember. Time may pass and fade away But memories of you will always stay. RIP Professor 💐

Story shared: His Impact Was Profound

Tue, 01 Sep 2015 19:11:34 EDT

Dr. Teye was a brilliant man who absolutely changed my life for the better. I am working in higher education and contonuing my success as an educator because of him. I have so many fond memories traveling the world and learning from him, that I will carry those with me forever.

My deepest condolences to Ms. Anna and the rest of the Teye family- my heart goes out to you.

Dr. Teye...thank you for the memories and thank you for having such an impact on my life and my career. I can never thank you enough for your guidance, your wonderful sense of humor and the infinte brilliance you gave to the thousands of students you taught. From the bottom of my heart, thank you. I will miss you, always.

Love,

Carrie Canty

Condolence From Dr.Lawrence Fiemawhle

Tue, 01 Sep 2015 18:30:43 EDT

Your dad will always be with you; his spirit and good will be part of you no matter where you go.I know that you wanted,needed, and hoped for more quality time to spend with your father but the time you did spend with him meant so much to him.Father Victor loved you so much and did not want to be a burden on you all.I know you will miss him terribly.Your father was one of the best examples of how fathers should live their lives on this earth. Let not this family's heart be troubled:for this family believes in God.The Lord proclaimed that"In my Father's house there are many mansions:if it were not so,i would have told you.I go to prepare a place for you.And if i go to prepare a place for you,i will come again and receive you unto myself;that where i am,there ye may be also.And whither I go ye know,and the way ye know".Amen

Condolence From TRIBUTE/MEMORIES IN RESPECT OF DR. VICTOR TEYE.SUBMITTED BY FRIENDS, PALS MATES ETC. FROM ACCRA,GHANA.

Tue, 01 Sep 2015 17:14:16 EDT

DEAR TARA, For all the time we have known you, for some of us forty years and over, for others less but nevertheless for all, substantial in terms of the quality of the time, we don't find a minute when you were boring or uninteresting; you always were a significant part of our brother, guy or friend scene, adding spice, making the times very precious. Though you went all over the world in your academic assignments you found time for the guys back in Accra and never missed a rendezvous in Kaneshie, Asylum Down, or West Legon to celebrate a reunion with us. You taught us not to write off our country by the projects you brought to Ghana as in the Tourism Departments at the University of Cape Coast and the Ghana Institute Of Management And Public Administration [GIMPA] at Legon. You were, despite your being the 'Prof', a "Ghanaman" like all of us, always comfortable and happy to be a Ghanaian despite all the existential challenges of that term, these days... Tara we missed you while you were away on the medical odyssey that has ended with you passing away into eternity but you will be a part of us for the rest of our lives ,all of us. Whenever we sit at those spots that you know well your persona will be there; you will be attending many more parties with us and we will toast you as ever., just watch us Yours Truly: Johnson Azola, Charles Sagoe, Samuel Okwabi, Alfred Abeedu, Alex Amarteifio, O'Willie Teye, Soko Codjoe, James Wood, Sam Sykes Dr. Omane, Yawii Acquah, Tsri Appronti, Frank Alonzo, Wallas Kwamie, Conrad Bruce-Tagoe and all the others not mentioned here say BYE, BUT ONLY FOR NOW.

Condolence From Tribute from his Brother Amanarh John-Teye

Tue, 01 Sep 2015 15:56:33 EDT

TRAILING BEHIND OUR FATHER ACROSS THE LENGTH AND BREADTH OF GHANA (MO KO KE ESEEHO,WALKING HAND IN HAND) Bra Professor, Big Professor from the small town called Lolonya. This is the way I address you whenever we speak on the phone. I remember the fond memories we had when we were growing up. I remember our days and our travels all over Ghana because of our father’s work. From Accra to Ho, Tarkwa, Aboaso, Wa, Asante Mampong, Tamale, Akim Oda. I remember our days at Odumase Krobo at Uncle’s house which was stationed on the compound of Presec Secondary School. I can remember vividly when you gained admission to Presec in 1962 you always remember to smuggle some food from the dining hall for me. I also remember our fond days at Tarkwa, when you come home for holidays, we go fishing just a mile away from home. The first day we went fishing we did not catch any fish and we laughed at our toil when we did not catch any fish. The second day we went fishing again but we were fortunate this time to catch a small fish. Unfortunately, the fish fell accidentally into the stream so we went home without any catch and we laughed about it for some time and anytime we remember this incident we always laugh. I also remember our days in Asante Mampong, after vacation when you have to go back to school, there was this biscuit container called ‘Black Magic Box’ which you yourself have to prepare your own sandwiches to carry on your journey back to Odumasi because there was no mother there to prepare your favorite sandwiches. I also remember our days at Tamale when you have to bring your friends home. Friends like Asamoah, Sammy, Adams (Aboach) and Dr. Ibn Chambers (Chamboo). After your first year in Legon (FUE) you did so well that you told your brother TT that you wanted to major in two degrees (that is Archeology and Geography) and your brother TT advised you to select one since he believed you would not do so well in the two programs or subjects. In other words, you cannot kill two birds with one stone and since you were a listening brother you took his advice and here you are Professor Emeritus in Tourism. A three time Full Bright Scholar. I also remember in Tamale when our daddy asked you to go to a veterinary school in Tamale since at the college you would not be paying school fees but rather you would be given allowance every month. But the principal of the veterinary college, Dr. Cofie who also happened to be our fathers friend and class mate in school came to our bungalow, so when our daddy told Dr. Cofie his intention for you to gain admission into the veterinary college, Dr. Cofie requested for your ‘O’ Levels results. After he examined your results, he said you should go to sixth form not the veterinary School although you were two terms late in entering Navrongo Secondary School you came out with flying colors and gained admission in entering University of Ghana – Legon. When you were a student at Legon, anytime you come on holidays I have to follow you and your friends where you visit most of the Pito centers. From one Pito center to another pito center. Bra Professor when was the last time you took your pito drink? I also remember in 1999 when our aunt Emma died in Takarodi and we had to go the funeral. I had to pass through cape coast university were you were teaching tourism. You did not know that I was coming because there was no cell phones at that time for me to inform you of my coming. When I informed you about the funeral of my aunt, you did not give any excuse but you quickly asked me to join you in your car. You went to a Gas Station, you filled your tank and we drove to Takoradi that night. After the funeral I had to pass the night at your residence before returning to Accra. That night you did not allow me to sleep in any of the numerous rooms in your house. But you beckoned me to sleep in the same bed with you in your bedroom. I did not sleep the whole night because I was afraid I will disturb you if I snore. And I also remember at Dansoman on your numerous visit to Ghana you asked me to accompany you to bid our father goodbye when you were leaving back to the States. At that time our father was ill lying in the sick bed. You told him of your mission there and he said ‘son, come and let me bless you before you go because you will not come and meet me alive’. And you said in Ada, our language ‘OH Daa you are not going to die, Dad don’t say that, I shall by all means come and see you alive”. He insisted and asked you to kneel down while he was lying in his bed for him to be able to bless you and He said let me bless you before going away and you being a great professor at that time you humbly knelt down and he blessed you. Later when I refer this famous occasion to you, you said you did not remember but I described the occasion to you and you remembered it. And I said that among the five children of our father you were the only one our father blessed. Whenever you came back from the states you come to visit us and you always cherish the African dishes my wife prepared for you and you always liked it. It was the ‘talk of the town’ always for you. I also remember when you were sick I came to your house at community 18 to visit you and when you saw me you said ‘my brother, come and sit beside me, tapping the bed that you were lying in. You confided in me a lot of things which I remember up to today and I shall always remember them. I also remember the few minutes I had to spend with you at the airport before your daughter took you back to the states. I also remember this year 3rd June when the rain destroyed part of the house and the wall of my house, when you heard of it, you sent me $400 to help rebuild the wall. Thank you so much bra Professor. On the 15th July 2015, the last time we spoke you said “bra Amanarh, just checking on you to find out how you and the family are doing”. What more can one say about a dear and faithful brother. Memories, Memories, what more fond memories do I have of you. When our big brother TT called me and gave me the sad news of your demise, He said ‘our brother, Victor, is no more. He will be with his maker and on the resurrection day he will meet Mamaa’. These kind words were said by our brother TT. Family man as you are I also remember when you came from Canada to collect data for your thesis, your sister whom you called Big sister was sick, you felt she was not given the much needed care and attention so you had to take her from her house at Bubuashie to your fathers in-law house at Labone Estates to have the care that you think she deserves and needed. That incident I remember because you were really angry. What more can one say of the Big Professor from the small town called Lolonya. Good Bye my dear brother, Professor Emeritus Victor Baker “Owula Aku” Teye Ok3 Womioo Moko ke enymi mi saminya Your dear brother.

Condolence From Tribute from Conrad Bruce-Tagoe For the Late Victor ‘Tara’ Teye

Tue, 01 Sep 2015 15:26:10 EDT

For the Late Victor ‘Tara’ Teye By Conrad Bruce-Tagoe The late Victor Teye, affectionately called ‘Tara’ by his many friends, was one of my abiding mentors since our days in college at our alma mater the University of Ghana. I remember when he left Ghana to pursue post-graduate studies at the University of Manitoba in Ontario, Canada. Even with the demands on his time, he never forgot about those he left behind, faithfully keeping in touch with family and friends – this in the days before email and IM (i.e. instant messaging). That shows character and left a lasting impression on me! It is character that communicates most eloquently. To quote Ralph Waldo Emerson, “What you are shouts so loudly in my ears I cannot hear what you say.” I distinctly recall how delighted I always was whenever I received an aerogramme letter from him. For me, this amply manifests his dedication and caring nature, being faithful to his roots, selflessly engaged with and for the When I first immigrated to America in the mid-80s, he was naturally one of few trusted people whose counsel I sought and relied upon. It was a special joy for me when I could with visit him and his family in Phoenix, Arizona from whence we spent a weekend at his time-share retreat in Tempe and make side trips to Nogales, Mexico. Tara and I had a nice visit on the phone whilst we were both visiting in Houston, Texas barely weeks before his passing, and I was very encouraged to learn he was steadily recovering after bouts with illness. Commiserating some more, we promised to stay strong and look forward to the ‘golden years’ of retirement in Ghana. It is no secret that Tara was not born with a ‘silver spoon in his mouth’ and yet he did not allow a humble beginning to stand in the way of realizing his full potential and to go on and distinguish himself professionally and personally. The true measure of the man is that he used that very fact of life as strong motivation to drive his life pursuits, and his tireless work ethic and countless accomplishments As we mourn the loss of our dear Tara, I have vivid recollections of a gentle soul of calm intellect, engaging presence and cheerful disposition, never failing to earn your respect and admiration. More than simply being a beloved professor, he was true to his calling - teaching and uplifting others! He always made me feel special and I love him for that. I’ll always remember him for his fine qualities of integrity, honesty and fairness, and as who worked hard and lived life to the fullest. Maya Angelou once said, “People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made I am deeply saddened that ‘Tara’ is so suddenly taken away from us – way too soon. Let us be reminded of the Scripture: “No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love Him” – 1 Corinthians 2:9. Tara will be fondly remembered as the consummate leader, loving father, mentor and a true friend of many. May his soul rest in perpetual peace! “Though nothing can bring back the hour of splendor in the grass, of glory in the flower We will grieve not, rather find strength in what remains behind In the primal sympathy which having been, must ever be In the soothing thoughts that spring out of human suffering In the faith that looks through death and years that bring the philosophic mind.” – William Wordsworth (1770-1850) Ode – Imitations of immortality from early childhood

Condolence From Tribute To The Late Dr. Victor Baker Teye by his brother Captain Ebenezer Amanortey Teye And His Family

Tue, 01 Sep 2015 15:07:13 EDT

Though I might have been four years old at that time, I vividly remember the day my brother Victor was born. I woke up at Pamsem (House) but could not find my mother and her maternal aunt Mami Keta. I therefore walked the short distance to Kpodzi (House), which is the family home of Nathaniel Teye who was our mother’s maternal grandfather. This was because we were always welcome there with food. On my arrival at the house, in a building on the left side, I saw the old ladies standing outside with one coming with bowls of water. I could hear a man’s voice in the room urging on and our mother screaming. Later I heard the screaming cries of a baby, and could hear the old ladies rejoicing saying “Mawu Penor” which means “Thanks be to God”. I was then told that I had got a baby brother. The man urging had been acting as the midwife. His name was Mr. Famable. He delivered brother Victor into the world. Because we were born into a mission home, our grandfather being the late Reverend John Teye, our Christian names were taken from the bible starting with the letter “E”. Our sister had Emelie, I had Ebenezer, then brother TT was Emmanuel, and brother Victor was Eliezer (which means God Of Help). Our brother Amanarh bucked the trend by being called Isaiah. Eliezer also had the name Victor because our father’s elder sister who was studying nursing in the UK at that time was called Victoria. She insisted that the child also be called Victoria, but since he was a boy he was called Victor instead. Our mother used to call him “Owula Aku” because he was born on a Wednesday. In the sixties when we were in secondary school, the name Baker featured on the American and Canadian political scene. I called myself Jack Baker and he took the name Baker. The name Eliezer was very unusual and so people used to ask him how he came about that name. Since he got fed up explaining about Eliezer, he dropped it and officially took up the name Baker. I still continue to call him Eli-Vic, combining Eliezer and Victor. Among the five of us, I was relatively closer to him as we lived together with our uncle the late Lawrence John Teye and grandfather the late Reverend John Teye at Odumase Krobo. We then moved together to stay with our mother in Accra. Brother Victor was a jolly good fellow, very clever, and full of good-natured pranks. He did not read very much, and though most of us struggle with learning, he always came on top academically. There we go again! Brother Victor seemed to have played his “pranks” on me again. On Monday 24th August, my very birthday, a drunken man came knocking on our gate telling my wife a tale that his mother was dead and that he wanted money. My wife - who our mother christened KK - was annoyed and told him that he must not bring bad luck for coming to ask for funeral money on the first day of the week, and on such a day. However, I never believe in such superstitions. And there was another “prank” to come. On Thursday 27th August, one of our alarms had been incorrectly set, and so woke us up at 4am GMT instead of the usual 5am. At 4:30 am the telephone rang, only for me to be told that my dear brother had kicked the bucket and that he had passed on. Like one of The Temptations songs, “I Wish It Could Rain” to hide my tears but there was no rain so everybody saw my tears. This is the second time I have cried. The first time was at the funeral of our late uncle Emmanuel Otu Teye at Odumase. My crying for Victor was the second time. We were in a dilemma as to whether to proceed with my upcoming birthday celebrations due in two days. However, Victor’s daughter Otuko urged us to do so several times saying that is what her father would have loved us to do. Victor has always been thoughtful and considerate, always urging all his brothers to go for medical checkups which I finally did. The last time we spoke was only two weeks before his death, and he was in good spirits and he was his usual cheerful and reassuring self. As a result, the news of brother Victor’s death came as a huge shock. Since hearing news I have been singing a song like the one by Kenny Rogers “You Took A Fine Time To Leave Us Victor” because we were preparing for my 70th birthday on Saturday 29th August. That is the last prank that Victor played, but all in all we say from Romans 11:33-36: “Oh, the depths of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are His judgments, and unfathomable His ways. But who has known the mind of the LORD or became His counsellor, or who has first given to Him that it might be paid back to him again. For from Him and through Him and to Him are all things. To Him be the glory forever Amen.” Let us eulogize Victor with these words from the poem “Death Is Nothing At All” by Henry Scott Holland (1847-1918): Death is nothing at all, I have only slipped away into the next room, I am I, and you are you, Whatever we were to each other, that we still are. Call me by my old familiar name, Speak to me in the easy way which you always used. Put no difference in your tone, Wear no forced air of solemnity or sorrow Laugh as we always laughed at the little jokes we enjoyed together. Let my name be ever the household word that it always was, Let it be spoken without effect, Without the trace of a shadow on it. Life means all that it ever meant It is the same as it ever was. There is unbroken continuity. Why should I be out of mind because I am out of sight? I am waiting for you, For an interval, Somewhere very near, Just around the corner All is Well. Brother Victor, fare thee well. Yaa wo odzogbaa, Yaa wo samiya.

Story shared: I LOST A FAMILY

Tue, 01 Sep 2015 13:53:03 EDT

I am privileged to be part of Dr. Teye's care. Our relationship grew from patient/doctor to family. I have never seen a person who in the face of adversity maintained his belief and hope. He never wavered in his hope that everything will be alright. He thought me a lesson about life. He showed me how to be strong in trouble times. Whenever I am down or faced with challenges I always think about him and I find peace. I never thought this day will come because to do so will be opposite of what Dr. Teye taught all of us: To dream. hope and believe. I believe Dr. Teye and I hope that I can have half the courage you had. Rest In Peace.

Photo shared: Teye, victor.jpg

Tue, 01 Sep 2015 12:07:35 EDT

Condolence From Pat

Mon, 31 Aug 2015 13:38:49 EDT

You have my sincere condolences. May you rely on the God of all comfort to help you at this difficult time.

Condolence From Heidi Stine

Sun, 30 Aug 2015 23:46:22 EDT

Will Magoon and Heidi Stine would like to send their condolences to the family of Victor Teye. We will always cherish our friendship with Victor and all of the wonderful times we shared together. With love.