Accra, March 19, GNA - The family of Captain Hugo Benzin Huppenbauer (Rtd) has called on former President Jerry John Rawlings to formally inform him of his passing away.

The delegation, led by Fletcher-Dzoleto, brother of the deceased, included the widow, Mrs. Carol Huppenbauer and his children. A statement signed by Koffi Adams, special aide, said former President Rawlings paid glowing tribute to Huppenbauer, saying he had an amiable character which endeared him to many officers and men of the Ghana Armed Forces.

"He was a nice gentleman for the young soldiers to look up to," Ex President Rawlings was quoted as saying.

The former President said everyone looked up to Capt Huppenbauer as the standard and counsellor adding that he conducted himself in such a manner that he was accepted by all who came into contact with him. Former President Rawlings described his passing away as a great loss to the nation and urged the family to take heart and rejoice in the fact that he paid his dues to mother Ghana.

Captain (Rtd) Huppenbauer passed away at the intensive care unit of the 37 Military Hospital in Accra on March 4, 2009. Funeral arrangements have been tentatively fixed for April 16 and 17 but detailed funeral arrangements would be announced shortly. 19 March 09