Mrs Pohakalani Mauga, wife of Lt. Governor Lemanu Peleti Mauga, passed away last night in Honolulu. She was 54.
A family member says Mrs. Mauga was surrounded by her husband Lt Governor Lemanu, their sons Peleti, Palepoi and Punalehua when she slipped away peacefully at around 11:30 pm.
Also present was the Director of the Governor’s Office in Honolulu Faalepo and the Lt. Governor’s Secretary Sallie Faumuina.
Lt. Governor Lemanu arrived in Honolulu yesterday afternoon from French Polynesia where he had been attending the Polynesian Leaders Group meeting.
Mrs Pohakalani Mauga or Poha as she was known to her close friends has been in Honolulu for more than a year undergoing treatment for cancer.
At a cabinet meeting last month, Governor Lolo Moliga told directors that plans were being made to bring her home as doctors had informed the family there was nothing else they could offer in the way of medical attention.
He also asked directors to remember Poha in their prayers.
Lolo made the same request at the last cabinet meeting two weeks ago.
The relative who spoke with KHJ News early this morning says Governor Lolo Moliga was informed last night.
Mrs Mauga had taught at Samoana High School and when her husband became Lt. Governor one of the projects she took up was being a tutor for children in the Juvenile Detention Center.
She was also active in community events relating to cancer.
A native of Hawaii, she will be laid to rest in the 50th state.
We extend our deepest condolences to Lt. Governor Lemanu and his sons for their loss.
