Lolipa "Israel" Tambwe

With heavy hearts, we share the unexpected passing of Lolipa "Israel" Tambwe on May 11, 2025, at the age of 16. Born on February 14, 2009, in Bukavu, South Kivu, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Israel's life was marked by resilience, faith, and a radiant spirit that touched everyone he met.

At just nine months old, Israel and his family were forced to flee their homeland and spent the next fourteen years living in a refugee camp in Zimbabwe. Amid hardship, Israel found hope and purpose through his faith in Christ. With his parents leading a network of churches that served fellow refugees, he discovered a passion for music early in life and began to play instruments in worship at the age of nine.

In answer to their prayers, on April 15, 2024, Israel and his family arrived in Wausau, Wisconsin, for a new beginning. He quickly made his mark at Wausau East High School as a dedicated student and a member of the soccer team. He enjoyed attending basketball games and embraced his new community with joy and grace. Israel continued to share his love for God by playing piano and leading singing in the Swahili-language worship service at First United Methodist Church.

Israel will be remembered for his kindness, talent, and unwavering joy. He brought light wherever he went and leaves a legacy of faith and love. He is deeply mourned and forever cherished by his parents, Jean-Claude and Lena, his siblings Gladys (still in Zimbabwe), Gloria (husband Martin and children Mimi and Praise), Elijah, Victoria, Tegra, Plamedie, Justice, and Alliance, extended family, and many friends both near and far.

A bilingual funeral service in English and Swahili will be held on Friday, May 23, at First United Methodist Church of Wausau. The service begins at 10:00 a.m., followed by approximate times of testimony at 11:00 a.m., viewing at 12:00 noon, and burial at Pine Grove Cemetery at 1:30 p.m. A meal featuring multi-cultural comfort food will follow in the Fellowship Hall at First UMC beginning around 2:00 p.m. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Israel’s life. The funeral and time of testimony will also be live streamed below.

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to support the Tambwe family with funeral expenses at https://givebutter.com/uGuORW or by sending a check written to First UMC with the memo “Israel Tambwe” to be fully directed towards the family’s needs.

Brainard Funeral Home- Wausau Chapel is assisting the Tambwe family.