In Memoriam: Antonio Marangabassa

We were deeply saddened to learn that longtime Odysseys Tour Director Antonio (Tony) Marangabassa of Kenya passed away recently.  For more than 15 years, Tony led guests on our Classic Safari:  Kenya & Tanzania tour, setting a standard for leadership that made him a beloved member of the Odysseys family.  His knowledge of, and passion for, Africa’s natural world has inspired countless travelers.

That passion extended to the people of Africa, as well.  In 2008, Tony and his wife Eunice founded the Makhanga Hope Academy, a private school which helps to educate students in underserved rural communities and is dedicated to training Kenya’s next generation of leaders, regardless of gender or ethnicity.  Annually since 2013, Hope Academy has been recognized as the Best Private School in its district by the Board of Education. 

Along with his wife, Tony leaves a son, four grandchildren, and five siblings.  He was also uncle, cousin, and friend to many, as noted in his obituary.

While we mourn his death, we celebrate the life of this generous, erudite, funny, compassionate, and warm man.  We will miss him.

If you traveled with Tony and would like to honor his legacy, you can learn more about Makhanga Hope Academy at www.african-angels.org, the school’s U.S. fundraising arm.