A descendant of the signors of the 1900 Deed of Cession between the chiefs of Tutuila and the United States , Tama Matua Tuilefano M. Vaela’a of Malaeloa, Aitulagi, passed away yesterday in Phoenix, Arizona. He was 78.
Tuilefano was with his wife of 49 years, Painuulasi Saipale Fesagaiga Tuilefano, daughters Titoaana Tuiteleleapaga & Victoria Liaiga, and son Lloyd Vaela’a Tuilefano.
At their home in Malaeloa were sons Val Vaelaa Tuilefano and Tuaolotele Wesley Tuilefano.
Val said his father had suffered a major stroke in 2004, and battled long time illnesses related to his stroke.
Tuilefano retired from the US Marine Corps as a first sergeant and upon returning home in 1980 , was bestowed the high ranking talking chief title Tuilefano which he carried to his death.
He served in many positions in government.
Tuilefano was a three term senator for Leasina Aitulagi, a Commissioner of Public Safety, a chief of airport police, a special assistant to Governor Togiola and a liaison between the Fono and Governor’s Office.
That was the last position he held in the Togiola Faoa administration before he fully retired.
He and his wife also owned a few businesses.
Tuilefano was also dedicated to his church, the Congregational Christian Church of American Samoa and was elder deacon of the Western District for over 10 years.
Accoridng to Val, his dad spent the last ten years on Malaeloa village church projects with Rev Faigata Manase, completing Aniutea Church Hall & the renovation of the Satauro O le Ola Church .
He was also dedicated to his beloved Malaeloa Village Council.
Asked what he will remember most about his father, Val said, “My dad had many traits, most of them good. Everyone would agree he certainly was a “no nonsense”, ” straight forward”, “no mincing words” type of guy who in the face of a difficult situation will not surrender for the sake of the truth or the right thing to do.”
One of the lasting images of his father that Val and his siblings will always cherish was a thumbs up in his final days, a reminder of his never give up spirit and determination.
Tuilefano is survived by his wife Lasi, five children and 8 grandchildren.
Our deepest condolences to Mrs. Lasi Tuilefano and children for the loss of their father and husband. .
