Mzee Abonyo, who passed away recently after battling multiple health conditions, was remembered as a hardworking, humble, and wise man who touched many lives through his work in the construction industry and his love for family.
The funeral service, held at his rural home, drew top leaders including Governor Gladys Wanga, Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja, Health PS Dr. Ouma Oluga, and long-time Raila Odinga ally Oketch Salah, among others.
They described the late Abonyo as a man who lived with purpose and left a mark on everyone he met.
Born in January 1949, Mzee Abonyo began his career in construction, working in towns such as Kisii, Kisumu, Nairobi, and Awendo.
His years at the Indian-owned Davji Bhimji Construction Company not only shaped his professional life but also inspired the name of his son, Davji Bhimji Atellah.
Later, he started Lantana Camara Construction Ltd, a company that gave opportunities to many jobless youths from Homa Bay and even Kibera in Nairobi.
Those who worked under him praised his generosity and mentorship, calling him a true father figure.
In 2019, Mzee Abonyo was diagnosed with stage four prostate cancer and continued to receive treatment while managing diabetes and hypertension.
His family shared that on the morning of his death, he complained of severe stomach pain before being rushed to Kendu Adventist Hospital, where he passed away that evening.
In a moving tribute, Dr. Davji Atellah described his father as “a man of style and wisdom,” recalling how he always guided his family through life’s challenges.
“He was my first friend and the master planner of our lives,” he said tearfully.
Mzee Abonyo leaves behind two wives, fifteen children, and thirty-five grandchildren.
He will be remembered for his legacy of resilience, faith, and mentorship that inspired both his family and the wider community.
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