Nello Mungai

Nello Mungai, 91, of Hickory, died Monday, February 6, 2012, in his residence. He was born July 19, 1920, in Castle Shannon, the son of Alfonso and Olida Mungai. Mr. Mungai was a 1938 graduate of Cecil High School. Nello devoted his life to farming, and firmly believed that if you took good care of your land, it would take good care of you. His farm was viewed by many as one of the best in Washington County. He began his farming career in partnership with his father and brother. They had one of the largest vegetable farms in the county, selling to the former A&P grocery chain and to commission houses in the Pittsburgh Strip District. During the 1970’s, he converted his farm to raising beef cattle, hay, and grain. His farm received several awards, including H.J. Heinz top tomatoes, 1999 Washington County Conservation, Pennsylvania Intensive Grazing, and Washington County Beautification. He was a member of many organizations, including the Mt. Pleasant Township Volunteer Fire Department, for 60 years; Tri-State Historical Steam Engine Association, serving as president and show/parade manager, for 33 years; Washington County Cattlemen Association, serving as treasurer; the Local Farm Bureau, serving as director; the National Farmers’ Union; the Fort Vance & Jefferson Historical Society; and Cross Creek Senior Citizens. He volunteered his time to serve on the Washington County Clean and Green Task Force, and provided the Farm Service with detailed weather data. On February 21, 1946, he married Norma Fullerton, who survives. Also surviving are three sons, William of Hickory, Robert (Paula) of Burgettstown, and Bruce (Linda), of Lancaster; a sister, Eleanor Mazzie of Washington; 6 grandchildren, 2 great-grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews. Deceased is a brother, Charles, formerly of Florida. Friends will be received from 4 to 8 p.m., Thursday, February 9, 2012, in William G. Neal Funeral Homes, Ltd., 925 Allison Avenue, Washington. Services will be private and at the convenience of the family, with the Rev. R. Douglas Reinard officiating. Burial will be in Mt. Prospect Cemetery. The family suggests memorial contributions to the Mt. Pleasant Township Volunteer Fire Department, Hickory, PA.