Desire passed February 3 surrounded by his family, embraced with care, dignity.

Desire was born February 10,1965 in Rango Commune, Kayanza Province, Burundi, to Barakamfiye Louis and Sibomana Trifonia. He was raised in a large and loving family.

In 1993, Desire and his wife fled Burundi due to war and sought refuge in Tanzania. They lived in the Mkugwa Refugee Camp in Kigoma, Tanzania, until 1998. That same year, they were granted resettlement in the United States and made their home in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.

Desire made the courageous and selfless decision to move his family away from conflict and uncertainty in pursuit of safety, stability, and greater opportunity for his children. His determination to seek a better future led him to rebuild his life in a new country.

He is survived by his  wife, Renilida, and his children: Odeta Mvuyekure, Mtokambali Desire, Siwema Desire, Nashon Harper, and Amon Harper.