Tribute to My Friend and Brother-in-Law, Elias Karugo Mbugu
Today, we gather here with heavy hearts to bid our final farewell to my dear friend
and brother, Elias, fondly known as Karugo in our village. This message is written
with profound sorrow, knowing that just a few months ago, Mama Karugo also
went to be with the Lord. The timing of their departures has left us all shaken, and
we could never have imagined that they would journey to their heavenly home so
close to each other.
To my brother and friend Elias, I want to take a moment to honor the time we
shared. Growing up with you as an elder brother was a privilege. Though I am
deeply pained by your untimely departure, I find the strength to give you the
dignified send-off you deserve.
I remember vividly how, with your talented left hand, you coached me in
mathematics and graded my compositions. Watching you effortlessly switch from
solving math problems to picking coffee or cutting napier grass for Mr. Mbugu’s
cows filled me with admiration. You were not only a gifted student but also a role
model to us all. I recall your days as the top student in our primary school and your
admission to Nyeri High School. It was a journey you inspired me to emulate, and
I will forever be grateful for your mentorship and guidance.
Karugo, your influence shaped my academic journey and laid the foundation for
the heights I have reached. Without your steadfast encouragement and example, I
would not be the person I am today.
Your absence leaves an irreplaceable void in my life. Who will now buy me my
first cup of coffee whenever I land in Kenya, accompanied by those enriching
conversations about life and future projects? Who will call me from a hospital bed
to check on my well-being, just as you always did when you heard I was unwell?
When I faced challenges in South Africa—economic struggles and the weight of
loneliness—you were my unwavering support. Your phone calls, your words of
encouragement, and your belief in my resilience were lifelines that kept me going.
Now that you are no longer here, I will lean on the memories of our conversations
to guide me, cherishing the wisdom you shared.
Thank you, Elias, for being more than a brother-in-law; you were a mentor, a
wedding committee chairman, a genuine friend, and a biblical neighbor in faith and
in life.
Though words cannot fully capture the essence of who you were, I want you to
know that your legacy lives on. I promise to stand by Timothy, who is deeply
devastated, and support your family, including your incredible son and your lovely
daughter, whose pure American accent always delighted me.
Travel well, my brother. Shine with the angels and rest in eternal peace until we
meet again. We loved you in life, and we will continue to love and honor your
memory in death.
Farewell, Karugo. You will forever be in our hearts.
Dr. Peter Ruhiri
