Franklin Mwenda Gikunda
December 9, 1974 – May 13, 2025
Franklin Mwenda Gikunda was born on December 9, 1974, in Nairobi, Kenya, the son of the late Cyrus Gikunda M’Mirigo and Susan Gikunda. A proud alumnus of Westlands Primary School, Strathmore School, and Upper Hill School, Frank’s curiosity and quick wit first shone through in his spirited school debates—and he never lost that spark.
In the late 1990s, Franklin set his sights across continents and made Boston his new home. He later found his heart split between Oklahoma and Kenya: each mid-year he would visit his sister’s family in Oklahoma, and at year’s end he’d journey back to Kenya with unwavering devotion. Ever the entrepreneur and avid farmer, he nurtured tea and avocado groves with the same passion he brought to every endeavor, delighting in the rhythms of the land. A voracious reader and news aficionado, Frank could quote you headlines from around the globe—and then challenge you to discuss them over a cup of chai.
Frank’s greatest joy was people. He was a mentor to many, always ready to lend an ear, offer guidance, or—true to his generous nature—share his last coin. Whether sparking laughter at a backyard gathering or leading a lively debate in the living room, his big heart and brilliant mind were impossible to miss. He maintained friendships that spanned every timezone and never failed to check in on those he loved.
He is survived by his loving mother, Susan Gikunda; his siblings Kinya Kamau and Joseph Gikunda; sister-in-law Roselyne Muriithi; brother-in-law Alexander Kamau; and his adoring nephews Lucas, Jeremy, Austin, Adrian, and Brandon. He was nephew, cousin, and friend to many, each of whom cherishes memories of his warm laughter and generous spirit.
Franklin was predeceased by his father, the late Cyrus Gikunda M’Mirigo, and his brother, the late Kenneth Gikunda.
Frank’s legacy of kindness, curiosity, and boundless generosity lives on in every life he touched. In lieu of flowers or memorial funds, his family asks that you honor Franklin’s memory by helping someone in need—carry forward the spirit of giving that he exemplified every day.
A celebration of Franklin’s life will be held Saturday, May 17, 2025, at 9:00 AM at Nordgren Memorial Chapel (300 Lincoln Street, Worcester, MA). A livestream link will be shared for those joining from afar.
His cremation service will take place Tuesday, May 20, 2025, at the Rural Cemetery and Crematorium in Worcester, MA; his family will carry his ashes to Oklahoma, where they will be laid to rest.
May we all remember Frank with the same joy and warmth he brought into the world