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Public Memorial Remembers Manute Bol

Photographs, basketballs, and flowers were in front of the alter at Antioch Church. Photo by Laura Ziegler

http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/kcur/local-kcur-912151.mp3

Kansas City, Missouri – Some 200 people came to Antioch Church last night - many who'd never met Manute Bol- to celebrate his life.

Since coming to live in Olathe a few years ago, Bol had kept a low profile. Since his NBA career, he'd spent most of his time, and resources, traveling back and forth from his native Sudan.

Last night, his wife and many of his family were still in Sudan, where Bol was buried next to his grandfather one week ago.

But those at the service praised the 7'7" center for helping the Sudanese refugees known as "Lost Boys," and for donating his name, and money, to the cause of peace in Sudan.

Susan Collins worked with the Sudanese in this area, and said Bol was inspiring.

"I just came to pay my respects and to offer up all that he has done for his community in Sudan."

There will be another, larger celebration in 40 days,according to Sudanese tradition. The Sudanese symbolically stop grieving 40 days after a loved one is buried. They have a party with food, dancing, and singing.

As Kansas City grows and diversifies, journalists need to listen to the people, to your challenges and successes..As engagement and solutions editor, I’ll make sure we’re framing stories based on what we hear from you, and we’ll partner with communities so our stories help us understand and connect to one another. Email me at lauraz@kcur.org.
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