When Su’a Carl Schuster retired after a successful career in the US Airforce and Navy, he moved back and started a whole new life in politics, business and community service here at home.
He was the faipule for District #7, Utulei and Fagaalu, for 3 terms, was the chairman of the Republican Party of American Samoa, owner of Triple S Airport Gas Express, an active member of the Lions Club of Pago Pago and served as Director of Public Affairs for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. He was also the Bishop of Pago 2nd Ward of the LDS Church for 8 years.
Su’a was a member of numerous government boards including the American Samoa Power Authority and the Shipyard Services Board under previous administrations.
He was at one time the Acting Executive Director of ASPA. He also served as Governor AP Lutali’s Assistant of Government Operations.
In the community, Su’a was one of the longest serving members of the Lions Club and was also the first Chairman of the Board of Goodwill Services.
His career in the military includes being a flight engineer and an aircraft leading mechanic in the US Air Force.
He then moved to the Department of Defense Hunters Point Shipyard where he worked for seven years as a journeyman electrician.
He joined the Long Beach Naval Shipyard and started as a compass mechanic and worked his way up to being a supervisor.
After he retired in May of 1984 he and his wife Salote Starr Lutu Schuster moved back to the territory and started his service in ASG in January 1985 as Deputy Director of Public Works.
High Chief Pulu Ae Ae Jr who served in the House of Representatives at the same time as Su’a says “he was a man of the people and a true public servant.“
Pulu said Su’a was not a man to seek attention or status as a lawmaker but would mingle with all sorts of people and fit in with any crowd.
“He was a vocal and outspoken lawmaker who didn’t mince words about issues he felt passionate about,“ Pulu described his good friend. “He was an honest and caring man.”
Pulu recalled when a fellow faipule Malualii Young fell seriously ill and needed to be evacuated off island.
Su’a was determined to find the means to send him off island. A medical charter was ready to come but the cost was $45,000 at the time.
Pulu said Su’a did not rest until they got a signed check from then Governor Tauese Sunia to pay for the medivac for Malualii. “That was the person he was,” said Pulu. “Always looking out for others.”
Su’a passed away September 28 at the age of 89. He’s survived by his wife Salote Starr Lutu Schurster, 6 children, 15 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren. His funeral services will be held at the Malaeimi Stake Center tomorrow.
Our deepest condolences to Mrs Schuster and family on the passing of this special man.
