Michael Abel Nyakundi
In Loving Memory of Michael Abel Nyakundi August 11, 1998 – February 13, 2025With deep sorrow and heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Michael Abel Nyakundi, a cherished son, brother, grandson, nephew, cousin, and friend.
At just 26 years old, Michael’s journey on this earth ended on Thursday, February 13, 2025, at Virtua Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital in New Jersey, leaving behind a legacy of brilliance, kindness, and unwavering love.
Born on Tuesday, August 11, 1998, in Kenya, Michael was the beloved son of Joseph Mecha and Lilian Nyairo. From an early age, he exhibited an insatiable curiosity, an exceptional intellect, and a heart full of generosity—traits that would define his remarkable journey.
A Life of Excellence and Purpose Michael was a beacon of academic and professional excellence. He pursued his passion for innovation and discovery, earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Chemical Engineering from the prestigious A. James Clark School of Engineering at the University of Maryland in 2021.
His dedication and brilliance quickly propelled him into the biotech and pharmaceutical industry, where he made significant contributions. Michael began his career at Integrated DNA Technologies (IDT), then advanced to Kite Pharma, where he played a crucial role in cutting-edge biopharmaceutical research. Most recently, he served as a valued Chemical Engineer at WuXi Advanced Therapies in Philadelphia, working on therapies that will continue to save lives for years to come.
His impact in the field was profound, and his legacy will live on in the innovations he helped bring to life.
A Heart that Knew No Bounds Beyond his professional achievements, Michael was a soul filled with warmth, compassion, and love. He carried an infectious smile, a sharp wit, and a heart that embraced everyone around him. His kindness and humility left lasting impressions on those who had the privilege of knowing him.
He was the beloved brother of Brian Nyakundi, Dalton Nyakundi, and David Nyakundi, each of whom he adored and encouraged in every step of life. He was a grandson to Yukabeth Nyasuguta Mecha, Francis Mecha Osoro, the late Elizabeth Kemunto Nyairo, and Johnson Omwena Nyairo, whose wisdom and love shaped him into the extraordinary young man he became.
Michael’s extended family was a wellspring of love and strength, filled with uncles, aunts, and cousins who deeply cherished him. He was a nephew to the late Geoffrey, the late Nyambane, the late Nyogari, the late Evans, the late Douglas, the late Tom, George, Millicent, Caroline, Kalyster, Concepta, Bwari, Dorothy, Caren, Dr. Newton, Franklin, Gichaba, Bosire, and many others.
His cousins, including Denis, Diana, Ziphora, Bwari, Tommy, and countless more, will forever treasure the memories they shared with him. Michael’s life was a testament to resilience, love, and an unrelenting pursuit of greatness. His presence was a gift, and though he is no longer with us, his spirit will live on in the hearts of all who loved him.
Celebration of a Life Well-Lived A funeral service honoring Michael’s life will be held on Sunday, March 16, 2025, at 9:00 AM at Hagerstown Seventh-day Adventist Church, 11507 Robinwood Drive, Hagerstown, MD. Pastor Roger Larson will officiate the service.
Family and friends are invited to a visitation and viewing on Saturday, March 15, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Douglas A. Fiery Funeral Home, 1331 Eastern Blvd N, Hagerstown, MD 21742. Following the service, Michael will be laid to eternal rest at Rest Haven Cemetery in Hagerstown, Maryland.
Though his time with us was far too brief, Michael’s light will never fade.
His dreams, his laughter, his unwavering kindness—these will continue to resonate in the lives he touched. Rest in eternal peace, dear Michael. You graced this world with brilliance, warmth, and love, and though you have left our sight, you will never leave our hearts.