Naivas Supermarkets founder Simon Mukuha was on Thursday remembered for his smile even in adversity and personal mantra that "we exist to make other people's lives better."
"Mukuha was wonderful person, humble and a peacemaker with an exceptional smile. He was a candle as he has lit so many lives. He would not rest until he assisted workers,"Naivas head of human resource Grace Kiarie told mourners in the packed PCEA Nairobi West Church.
Speakers said Mukuha's boundless energy, work ethic and legendary wisdom would continue among those whose lives he touched.
His widow Monica Wanjiru said he did wonderful work at Naivas.
"Throughout the years of our life together, he showered us all with immense affection, pouring his heart out into the family as much as, if not more than, he did into the Naivas business that we are familiar with,"she said.
Mukuha who died on August 26 was praised as a person of integrity who walked tall amongst peers in business.
He collapsed in his Nairobi home on August 23 and was rushed into Aga Khan University Hospital where he was found to have suffered a stroke.
Among the were trade PS Chris Kiptoo, Nakuru Governor Lee Kinyanjui and Naivasha MP Jayne Kihara.
Naivas is one of the largest retail chains in the country, with 54 stores employing 6,000 people.
Mukuha started off as a teacher before the business bug bit him. In 1990, he joined his father Peter Kago and three siblings to setting up Magic Super Stores in Nakuru.
Mukuha's son Charles described his dad as "inspirational and passionate with his work."
PS Kiptoo relayed President Uhuru Kenyatta's message,saying Mukuha was a great entrepreneur.
"We have lost a pillar who started as a shopkeeper all the way to one of the best supermarkets," Kiptoo said.
Mukuha who left behind a wife, four children and eight grandchildren was later laid to rest at the Lang'ata Cemetery.
