Obituary
Gulain “Gil” Murayire
Gulain “Gil” Murayire of La Crosse, Wisconsin passed away unexpectedly December 3rd, 2018. He was born on April 14th, 1988 in Kigali, Rwanda. Following the 1994 genocide Gil resided in the Gisimba Memorial Centre led by the incredible Papa Damas.
Gil was a beloved member of the African Children’s Choir where he spent many years of his young life traveling the world sharing his gift of music. He was loved by many dear aunties and uncles throughout his experience with the choir, including Christy Melton Blakely, Kelda Smith, Michelle Ironmonger and many more.
In 2004 Gil was welcomed into the Winona, Minnesota community by partnership of the Hansel-Parlin and Wunderlich-Hongerholt families to join his brothers Alphonse and Alex. Gil attended Cotter High School where he excelled in soccer and basketball, he graduated in 2008.
Gil brought joy, happiness, and laughter to those around him. He had a big smile and even bigger heart. He enjoyed video games, soccer, basketball and above all else spending time with his children.
He is preceded in death by his mother Epiphany Karambayire, father, and grandmother Karambayire.
He is survived by his son Amaree W. Murayire, step-daughter Alayzia L. Hall, brother Alphonse Bizimana, brother Alex (Aimee) Nsengimana, Fils Mwizerwa, Chanel Hall mother of Amaree Murayire, Ellen and Brad Hongerholt, Dane Wunderlich, Brianna (Joe) Pyka, Jillian (Kirk) Harris, and several close family and friends.
Services will be held at the Coulee Region Cremation Group in the Prairie Room, 133 Mason Street, Onalaska, Wisconsin on Sunday, December 16th at 3:00pm with a visitation one hour prior. Pastor Shane Burrows will officiate.
In lieu of flowers we ask that memorials be directed toward supporting Amaree’s future by way of the Honger (Ellen & Brad Hongerholt), Wunder (Dane Wunderlich), Mana (Alphonse Bizimana, Alex & Aimee Nsengimana), Harris (Jillian & Kirk Harris), and Pyka (Brianna & Joe Pyka) families who love him dearly and are committed to ensuring he feels his dads love and support forever.
Blessings and peace to all were a part of this short life journey.
I learnt about the sudden death of my brother Gil on Facebook through Alex and my heart was filled with sorrow. Toured with Gil in the African children’s choir and that is how i came to know Gil. We didn’t meet much after tour because he stayed in Rwanda and me in Uganda we could normally meet in camps that were organized by the organization. My condolences to Alex, Fils, and Alphonse may the Lord strengthen you. Rest In Peace Gil, till we meet .???
I had the privilege of caring for Gil as I toured with him on the African Childrens Choir. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends.
Rest In Peace brother Murayire
I’m lost for words?
While touring in the African Children’s choir, Gil and I were best of friends, always putting a smile on everyone’s face. I’m here still finding it hard to accept the fact that he went to be with the Lord. But in all things I thank the Lord for bringing Gil in my life and for the wonderful experiences we had together. Will always love you brother! Till we meet again.
RIP Gil?
We met Gil, Fils and Shane Long years ago, when we gave them rides to First Free, we also had them over for an Easter dinner. We met Gil and his son when he brought him to church. We always enjoyed our times with him. Blessed be his memory.
I met Gil 20 years ago when he arrived from Rwanda to travel with the choir. He made a big impression on me, so gentle, funny and kind. I still can’t believe he has gone. My love and prayers for all those he leaves behind. With love always Gil from Auntie Nay (Naomi Goulding nee Garrood) x