Leaso Utaulu Falana’ipupu Tufuga

Leaso Utaulu Falana’ipupu Tufuga, was a beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother and friend. Surrounded by Family who traveled from near and afar, and while beautiful voices sang his favorite songs, he peacefully departed his mortal body on Saturday, October 22, 2022. Despite knowing that he would eventually succumb to his Cancer Diagnosis, our hearts are still broken.

Leaso, known by many as “Papa”, was born to parents Tusitala Tufuga and Fetalaiga Tupua on December 3, 1935 in Saleimoa, Apia Samoa. He has five brothers and eight sisters. Papa is now reunited with his beloved wife, and eternal companion “Mama” Poto Pese Ta’avili Tufuga, who passed away over 20 plus years ago on June 19, 1999. He leaves behind twelve children, twenty-six grandchildren and six great-grandchildren with one on the way.

Papa was a devout believer in Jesus Christ. He was a servant of the Lord in many capacities throughout his life. He was a high priest in the Melchizedek priesthood, and an active temple recommend holder in the Church Of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. He loved the gospel and emphasized its principles. He testified to its truthfulness to his children and his posterity. It is through this testimony we know that Papa is alive and well in Heaven with Family and Friends who have passed on as well. We Know the Plan of Salvation allows us to be an eternal family, and also reunite with our family again one day.

Papa loved his family and devoted his entire life for the advancement and success of his children and grandchildren. As a young father, he left his parents in their small village of Saleapaga to travel to the capital city of Apia, in hopes to create a new life and opportunities for his growing family. For many years he worked tirelessly as a custodian at Pesega Church College, to support his family.

Papa Loved Sports! He was very athletic. Papa was blessed to have numerous Children and Grandchildren that inherited this trait. Although he loved watching all sports Live or on TV, his fondest memories and experiences came from the front row, cheering on his children and grandchildren at Volleyball matches. Papa was also passionate for Music. He was keen on perfection. Everything always needed to be perfect. He had a talent for composing songs and convincing us to perform them.

Unfortunately, he also was our worst critic, and never shy to let us know who sounded off key!

What Papa will be remembered most for, is his Love for Samoan culture. We call this Fa’a Samoa. He dedicated his life to perpetuating this deep knowledge of language, customs and traditions that distinguish Samoan People. Papa was given a High Ranking Matai Title for his Village and Family, and carried this Title with Dignity and Respect from the moment he received it. Afioga I le Ma’opu Taulagi Falana’ipupu Utaulu Tufuga. We will continue to honor him by holding on to these Traditions and Teachings as best as we can. We love you Papa.

A closed Family Home Evening will be held in honor of our Papa on Friday, November 4th at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints building located at 1625 South State Canyon Dr in Provo. His family service will be held the following day, Saturday November 5th, 9-11 located at 1090 W 1020 S, Provo, Utah 84601. He will be transported and laid to rest at the Provo City Cemetery following his service. Our family would like to express our gratitude to all our families, friends and loved ones that have sent condolences and prayers to us through these difficult times. Faafetai Tele Lava. We love you all!