It is with intense grief that we accept the death of Monica Apiyo (aka Mama Felix, aka Mama Jeff), wife to Brother Robinson Otieno Ataro (aka Roby).
We are requesting your helping hand to defray part of the hospital bill that will not be covered by insurance and for funeral expenses. The gap in the bill now stands at about 1 million after the insurance cover. However, with COVID19, time is rather squeezed and resources scarce. We are planning for burial on Friday July 23.
Please channel your contributions to Johnstone Amayo +254723276768
36 Condolences for Monica Apiyo Ataro
Condolences(36)
Joshuah Omenda says
July 14, 2021 at 22:21This is one death that has got me thinking very hard. She was born on 11th July 1961. She attended Tanga Primary School and was in the School Choire, then headed by Mr Maganda. Other Choire Members included Debora, Akinyi Nyar Obiero, Orwa Nyar Oola, Auma Odigo et al. Everytime choir was to travel to far away places like Bondo, Siaya, Kisumu or Nakuru, the girls in the choir used to sleep over in our house, and Nyar Imbo used to make they hair. Then Tanga School was disbanded in 1973 and all the seniors had to go to Nyabera, Nyakongo or Madiany. Mornica ended up at Nyabera where she did her CPE in 1975. Always the leader, she became the first Nyakwar Omenda to go to Secondary School, and again the first to go to High School. She did not disappoint, and was our role model until today. She inspired us to Excell in school and loved education. She ensured that every body went to school or college, many times using her own resources to pay. Even thought she lived in Karachwonyo, she was very much present at home.
Philip Otieno Kotieno says
July 15, 2021 at 14:49May her soul rest in Eternal peace
Roselyn Nyagoa says
July 15, 2021 at 15:29It is painful loosing sister in-law like Monica. very loving ,always smiling. The first time i saw you at Mum’s house in kisumu i was very young.but we enjoying being with you whenever you were going back to Kaimosi you have to pass by at Mum’s house and we will sing the whole night.Such a wonderful and soft spoken Woman.We will Miss you Mama Felix.
Chris Ojiewo says
July 15, 2021 at 16:03I have lost a personal friend in the family, one who lives true to the saying “Wat imedo gi osiep”. Monica is the one and only lady who took her time and came to visit me in JKUAT. Those who have been through these institutions of learning understand what impact that has on a student. I trusted Mama Felix with everything I had, she trusted me likewise. I would ask for ugali and mboga and she would stop everything to prepare it in 15 minutes. And she knew that I had solutions to her challenges, well I would endeavor to solve what I could.
I remember Mama Jeff challenged me to buy her an expensive memorable dress. Nilijitahidi na KShs.6000 (USD 60). In her characteristic love for people, she doubled that amount and bought 12 dresses instead and shared with her relatives and friends. What a kind heart!!
Looking for attachment for her nephew Holness Kerry John, she called me and told me that I must find a solution immediately. You can imagine how restless I was until I found a place at Katiba Institute that was very exciting to the boy. I haven’t given up looking for even better options, but I thank God I succeeded in this.
On Saturday June 19, I woke up ready to attend the Nairobi Central SDA Church online services beginning at 0815, but when I picked my phone I saw a missed call from Monica Apiyo Roby as it appears in my contacts. I called back and got a full hour of continuous stories from a very energetic and excited lady. Before we could end the call, her son Felix intervened and on inquiry I confirmed my fears that she was not a mistress of herself. I did not worship!! Off we dashed to Naivasha where she was at her brother’s place and stayed with her until sunset before returning to Nairobi.
She came back to Nairobi on Sunday in the company of Felix, but was unwilling to see a doctor. Meanwhile, I contacted Aphlyne Turphy at Mathari Mental Hospital to help identify the best possible psychiatrists in town. She recommended two doctors, Dr. Pius Kigamwa and Dr. Catherine Siengo. We could not fit into Dr. Kigamwa’s itinerary and so made a booking with Dr. Siengo, against her wish though.
Fast forward, Min Jeff was admitted on Wednesday 23rd, very energetic! We spent all Friday 25th and all Saturday 26th afternoons telling stories – past, present and future – and specifically planning for her birthday celebration on July 11th. She specifically instructed me to source fish from Busia for that function.
Her last instructions to me were on Saturday 26th when she asked me and my wife to sing two of her favorite hymns, pray and go home as we wait for another dose of stories on Sunday 27th. Unfortunately, we did not make it to the hospital on Sunday as we were hosting a friend.
On Monday 28th, Baba Felix called me early in the morning with shocking news that Monica was relapsing into a coma!! I called the doctor because I had her contacts already. She assured me that all was well. Monica’s sugar level had just gone down because she had not eaten for long (she had been sleeping), but they had resolved it and she was now stable. I relaxed. That evening, I went to hospital and she was a pale image of her energetic self – unable to rise up by herself, staggering while she walks, stammering while she talks. I could neither comprehend nor believe what I was seeing. The nurse on duty (Bryan) endeavored to explain to me the challenges involved in balancing the psychiatric treatment with the complex of physiological issues (hypothyroidism, hypertension, and diabetes), but I was still hopeful that whatever psychiatric medicine was used, its effect would wear off and she would be strong by and by.
The next morning, Tuesday 29th, Felix called to inform me of the decision to transfer her from Nairobi Mental Health Services to Nairobi West Hospital. The next I heard was that she was in High Dependency Unit (HDU), and before too long in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) from where she kept making baby steps towards improvement but never got back completely.
On Friday July 9, Felix called to inform me that her response level had improved and the doctor wanted us to spend more time with her, talk to her and even sing. We carried a song book to the hospital on Saturday ready for that. Instead I was told that blood platelets were urgently needed and 3-4 people should donate blood. Without any hesitation or preparation, I joined the bandwagon and donated a bag.
Tired after blood donation but hopeful of good results, we came home and I didn’t bother to charge my phone – mmm, I was not expecting any bad news anyway. On Sunday, I was not in a hurry to switch on the phone, rather to re-energize. I was hoping to eat some sukuma wiki and ugali ya wimbi, only to be informed that Mama Jeff was no more. I lost appetite and left everything scattered all over.
Life at best is very brief, Like the falling of a leaf, Like the binding of a sheaf!! Does Jesus care when I’ve said goodbye to the dearest on earth to me?
Elisha Orunga Osodo. says
July 15, 2021 at 16:16May Mam Saul Rest in the Lord till resurrection morning.
Seth Okeyo says
July 15, 2021 at 16:41Resurrection is assured to those who sleep in Christ. Rest well min Felix.
Cosmas Onyango Gori says
July 15, 2021 at 16:46My heartfelt condolences to the Ataro family. May God grant you strength and peace during this trying moment
Benedict Ataro says
July 15, 2021 at 16:46Aunt Monica touched my life on a personal level; the moment I was planning to get married to my wife, she welcomed me with open arms and allowed us to use her house as the venue for clan introductions. The picture will forever linger in my mind, till then when the trumpet of the Lord shall sound.
Bolo JR says
July 15, 2021 at 16:49My sincere condolences on the loss of Mama Monica Apiyo, a dedicated Wife , Teacher, Mother, Sister, Mother in Law and Grandmother.
Mama Monica was a smart woman with a strong personality and one of the kindest persons i have ever come across.
This loss is very painful. It’s even more difficult especially that we just lost the family Matriarch.
Praying to God to give the family and relatives strength during this very difficult time. May she rest among the angels.
Okeyo Willis says
July 15, 2021 at 16:51Someone so special can never be forgotten, may her soul rest in peace.
Ben Omenda says
July 15, 2021 at 17:05A sister,an advisor and a teacher. Amoni as we refered to her was one of the few who would tell you something the way it is,someone who would keep you on a right path as needed without any fear,very kind-hearted,loving and a caring being. Her story as one of our role models is so bulk for explanation. In our hearts she will leave. May her soul rest in eternal bliss.
Cecil Midika Okech says
July 15, 2021 at 17:44It’s with heavy heart that we accept God’s will. Wan duto wanie wuoth. May mama Rest in Peace. To the bereaved,may God give you strength to overcome the grief. Poleniii sana. Pole sana bwana Patron and the entire family.
Tobi Bolo says
July 15, 2021 at 18:11RIP Mama Monica
Molly says
July 15, 2021 at 19:38Pole sana to the family and friends of Monica. Tom may you and family receive peace and comfort at this difficult time.
May her soul rest in eternal peace.
Victor Okoth says
July 15, 2021 at 21:46May her soul rest in eternal peace
Mboyah Ngere says
July 16, 2021 at 04:47May her soul rest in eternal peace.
Patrick Sheunda Okoth says
July 16, 2021 at 13:40May her soul rest in peace.
Eng Silas Nyambok says
July 17, 2021 at 11:31Mos uru ahinya Joka Ojiewo. Bed uru gichir kata obedo ni Ng’ou ma winy piye kendo yueye onindo.
Lillian Odeny says
July 17, 2021 at 11:52I lost my Mama at a young age but It never affected me the way your untimely death has. You were our head girl,As you lay to rest, let it be known that you’ve left nothing but great memories behind. RIP Apiyo Okombe.
Linda Omenda says
July 17, 2021 at 20:14A sister, a teacher and a role model to everyone in the family, the entire komenda family is mourning u nyar daktari, rest in peace nyamera
Shiv Kumar AGRAWAL says
July 18, 2021 at 13:51My heart felt condolences. May the departed Soul rest in peace!
Benta Omenda says
July 18, 2021 at 19:44Monica, my mind still talks to you, and my heart still looks for you, but my Saul knows you are at peace.
I miss you, I miss your powerful voice,I miss your loughter, I miss your jokes,
I MISS YOUR EVERYTHING
JESSICAH LORNA OLOGI says
July 18, 2021 at 21:28You was the sweetest person I know and touched all those she met with her easy smile and welcoming generous way.
She was a strong independent role model to me, I both respected and admired for her sharp wit, confidence in her decisions and overall kind and caring spirit
It’s a time to remember her never ending smile, her cheeky laugh,her cheerful, concerning and loving ways .
I will always be grateful for the many lessons I received from her.
Rest in peace Aunty and I will forever miss you and love you in my heart .
Christa Matagaro says
July 18, 2021 at 21:39Death leaves a heartache that no one can fill, you were a mother to many and your loss has left a big void that will never be replaced. Your memories will forever be in our hearts. Sleep well mama, till we meet again.
Jane Akello Nyaimbo says
July 19, 2021 at 06:42Tribute
My dearest Mama where do I start from?You rested sooner than I expected.
My moments with you at the hospital remain the most difficult phase of my life.Seeing you unconscious crushed me.I am glad to have remained strong for your sake.What a relief knowing that you are free from pain.
My life has been twisted – we were intertwined. Our relationship was deeper than mother- daughter.It was a norm for us to spend time over the weekend together.We made reference to each other as alternates.Our bond remain unmatched.
I feel empty today but I find solace in understanding that God’s timing has always been the best.
I will forever be grateful for the sacrifices you endured to give me the best upbringing.
I want you to rest having comfort that I shall overcome this Void.It is just a matter of time – one day at a time.
I love you Mama!!!
Forever my best friend.
Keep watching over me.
Donald Ochieng says
July 19, 2021 at 08:04No words can describe the feeling when I realize that you are no more. It’s a feeling like no other. You departure has left a gaping hole in our family.
You passed on just too soon.
I reminisce with great pleasure how you used to take us to the Nairobi ASK show when we were just kids. Thanks to having a mom who is a teacher, I can proudly brag I drank more nyayo milk than most my classmates.
There is nothing that a mother will not dare or do for her children and family. In 1997, I remember how you protected us from the KBS double couch conducter who tried harassing us on our journey to Homa-Bay despite you being sick.
I haven’t the slightest clue where you could be in the afterlife, but I really wish you go knowing that you played your role well as a wife, mother, sister, aunt and grandmother. Your persistence, “say it as it is” and fiery attitude will be greatly missed. Rest in peace Mama.
Jane Odeny says
July 19, 2021 at 09:36It is hard to believe that you are gone siz, you were kind hearted. I will miss you Amoni. You have left a big gap Mama Jeff. Go well Osiep Baba. Till We Meet Again.
Tom Khataro says
July 19, 2021 at 15:59Dearest Sister-in-law Monica Apiyo,
It is with utmost grief that I have to use this unpleasant moment to jot these memorable words you spoke to me a couple of days before your demise.
You made a phone call to me but I was unavailable and had to call back later when I noticed your missed call. In your characteristic charm you cracked a joke asking ‘Ma dichuo manade ma kata dhako dwaro to ok yud ni’?
Ammonnie, as many of us fondly referred to her, did not hesitate to tell me that she was planning for her birthday celebrations that were scheduled for the 11th of July, 2021 and I was one of the invited guests. Nyar gi Ababu Fenta, little did I know that it was the last time I was hearing from you. The 11th day of July became a mourning day instead of a celebration of your birthday.
Monica was a forthright person who called a spade a spade, not a big spoon. May the Almighty God remember her when He will be gathering His saints to live with Him eternally.
Fare thee well Mwalimu
George Ambatta says
July 19, 2021 at 19:43My heartfelt condolences to Robinson on your loss. Monica has completed her race,allow her to rest. May the Almighty God who knows the end from beginning cover you and the children with His grace, love and embrace; and give you strength, peace and comfort as you grieve the loss of your dear wife. It shall be well
George Opado says
July 19, 2021 at 22:03My Sincere condolences to Mr. Robinson and family. May our ever-loving God keep you safely as you during these difficult moment.
“Jesus said to her, ‘I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die. Do you believe this?'”
John 11:25-26
Elder Joshuah Obong'o Ojiewo says
July 20, 2021 at 08:32I have lost a very dear sister-in-law who was very focused and instrumental in development matters in our home. She was always concerned with everyone’s progress and would provide advice where needed. She would not hesitate to say whatever was in her heart. She would not see anyone taking a wrong path and hold her peace. The hole she has left in our home is too deep too wide for anyone to fill. We leave it to God!!
Elder Isaiah Ojiewo says
July 20, 2021 at 08:40I have lost my age-mate in teaching fraternity as we were employed together as untrained teachers way back in 1985. While she was teaching at Oyombe, I was at Omboga. She then went ahead of me to TTC by just a year. However we were at different colleges. She was at Eregi, I was at Kilimambogo. We had a lot to compare notes on. Meanwhile I had a lot of respect for her because she allowed my brother Roby to pay for my Secondary School fees which otherwise could not have happened if she refused. I also stayed with them in Nairobi while I was still looking for employment. She equally participated actively making our home what it is today because she joined us as part of the family at a time when we had a lot of challenges. Let her soul rest in peace till meet again.
Reuben Otieno Ojiewo says
July 20, 2021 at 08:40It is with a lot of unbelief and grief that I have to say bye. You mentored me during my high school days. You took care of me as I was tracing my destiny. Very honest & will always say it as it is & advise wholeheartedly. Rest in peace Nya Uyoma as we wait for that bright glorious morning.
Lea Adhiambo Ataro says
July 20, 2021 at 09:08Rest in peace Mama. Your memories will forever be a treasure to our family .We will surely miss your hearty laughter. Until we meet again go well Mama.
Maxwell Omondi says
July 20, 2021 at 10:47No words can explain what gap you’ve left…. But i believe that this was God’s Plan. I know that right now your smilling with the angels. Rest In Eternal Peace Au.
Eva Boi says
July 20, 2021 at 16:18Aunty Monica, our history goes far I remember days when we would come from Mathare Mental and visit you in Dandora. These were memories of my best Christmases as kids. My late brother Victor and I used to recall those days with so much joy. You made us so close that we knew your brother and sisters. You would rent out hearty laughter in conversations. Go well we shall meet some day. I may not be nearby say good bye but it was in God’s plan it be this way.. Go well. We shall meet one day. Uncle Robbie, Aunt Wangari and the entire family our prayers are with you. Your niece Eva Boi
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