There are many remarkable events that happen in a person’s life, but death is the one that happens with finality. This finality, however, is limited to the person who has died – for those who remain, a new journey of reflection and reliving the life of the departed begins. And that’s where we, the Odongos, are.

Looking back, everyone in the family of the Mzee Joseph Odongo Ngode has fond memories and testimony of a life well lived. But Mzee’s life was lived beyond the walls of his family. His neighbours and friends had a share of him as well.

To his neighbours and friends, Mzee was an arbiter, and a kind, generous and good sport. He will be remembered for reaching out to those in need and lending a hand where he could. His hospitality was evident in the way his home was ever open to all. His age and wisdom earned him a seat in the elders’ court as a Kidhedhe.

To his extended family, he was an educationist, ensuring that not only his but as many other children as possible attended school. His home was ever full with children (nephews and nieces) who partook of his generosity to attain an education.

Mzee was born in 1940 and lived a life characterised by hard work, focus and a firm grip on his vision, rising from a typical fisherman’s son to a distinguished printer, evidenced by his work experience with Africa Herold Publishing House, Philips Kenya, Government Press and Executive Printing Works. He retired when his health became a concern. Those close to him will hold on to fond memories of a firm and calm personality.

Mzee is survived by two wives; Mama Grace Odongo and Mama Caren Odongo. Between them, they had 14 children: Lilian, Beatrice, Nick, Enoch, Celine, Paul, Nelson, Isdorah, Vincent, Winnie, Dorcas, Janet, Nancy and Elisheba. He leaves behind 32 grandchildren and four great grandchildren. He loved people and loved life, was always jovial and never hid his affinity for the finer things in life.

Mzee battled high blood pressure and diabetes for close to a year before he died on August 23, 2018 at the Kendu Adventist Hospital, having lived 78 full years. He will be laid to rest on September 17, 2018 at his rural home in Gendia village, Karachuonyo North constituency.