Obituary of Benjamin Ayorech

October 2, 1948 – Lira, Uganda

May 21, 2024 – Calgary, Alberta

With profound sadness, we share the news of the passing of Benjamin Ayorech, aged 75 years. A respected pillar of the Ugandan and African community, Benjamin unexpectedly left this world on Tuesday, May 21, 2024, in the comfort of his loving family in Calgary, Alberta.

Born on October 2, 1948, in Lira, Uganda, to Mohammed Orech AYO and Awelo Milyeri, he spent his formative years in Lira. He was a man of great respect and honour who consistently upheld the highest levels of integrity in all facets of his life, most especially when it came to traditional family values.

Benjamin’s educational journey took him to the University of Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania, where he was awarded a Bachelor of Arts Degree with majors in Economics and Management & Administration. After graduation, he took up a tenure as a Planning Officer in the ministries of Planning and Fisheries for the Tanzanian government. He later returned to Lira, Uganda, and became General Manager of Spinning Mill Textile Factory, providing employment to thousands in Lira. Upon arriving in Canada, he continued his studies and attended Grant McEwan College in Edmonton, Alberta where he received a Management Studies Diploma. This set the stage for a distinguished career at places such as the Edmonton Police Commission, where he was a member and later appointed Chairman. Following those achievements, he moved his family to Calgary and was appointed to the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada as a full-time board member. During Benjamin’s life, he achieved many other accolades, awards, and acclaimed honours.

Benjamin Ayorech's commitment to his work was paralleled by his dedication to many communities, which stretches across three continents. He took a liking to watching golf, which led to him taking up the sport and enjoying it in his spare time. He was also an avid hockey enthusiast as he cheered for his Calgary Flames.

Amongst his greatest accomplishments, he will most notably be known and remembered for being a loving husband and caring father. Benjamin is lovingly remembered by his wife, Louiza Ayorech, after 51 years of marriage, his children, Patrick, Doreen, Dennis, Jimmy, Paul, Joseph, and his grandson Ayo.

As per Benjamin’s wishes, the family extends an invitation to close friends and family members to join in commemorating his life at McInnis & Holloway (Crowfoot, 82 Crowfoot Circle NW, Calgary, AB), on Saturday, June 8, 2024, at 1:00 p.m. Reception to follow in the Hospitality Centre at the Funeral Home.

Family and friends who are unable to attend in person are invited to join Mr. Ayorech’s service streamed live (see link below) on the day of the service. For those who are unable to view live, a recording of the service will be posted.

The legacy of Benjamin Ayorech will forever resonate with those who had the privilege of knowing him. Benjamin will be remembered for his profound influence on both personal and professional fronts.

Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed with Benjamin’s family here.

In living memory of Benjamin Ayorech, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Crowfoot, 82 Crowfoot Circle NW, Calgary, AB T3G 2T3, Telephone: 403-241-0044.

Click to Sign the Video Guest Book and Watch Benjamin Ayorech’s Funeral Service