Taufa’ao ‘Aelupe Vi

Taufa’ao ‘Aelupe Vi was born September 30, 1949 to Netane Tuipulotu Vi and Fane Hikila Vi in Taunga, Vav’u, Tonga. He was the fourth born, however quickly took on the responsibilities of the eldest son when his older brother passed away at a young age. He took these responsibilities to heart; leaving Tonga in 1972 to go to Samoa, America Samoa in 1976, and then to the United States. Along the way he brought his parents, auntie, and siblings to join him in each of these countries to create opportunities for progression. Settling in Utah in 1977, he had five children; Alisha, Jeremy, Amanda, Mikel, and Steffanie. He was a loving father, grandfather (Papa), uncle and devoted family man whose love was stronger than his Tongan accent. He undeniably loved the Lord with all his heart and soul. He was taken home to be reunited with his ancestors and his eldest son, Jeremy Aelupe Vi, on March 12, 2020, in the comfort of his home. He will be missed by all who knew and loved him; in particular by those he loved dearly, including his children: Alisha (Shane) Sykes, Amanda (Jimmy) Fernandez, Mikel (Monique) Otufangavalu, and Steffanie Vi; his grandchildren: Tanner, Taten, RaeAnah, Syrus, Kaison, Malia, Alexis, Afton, and Mannasseh; mothers of his children: LeAnn and Marsha; and remaining siblings: Veisinia, Ana Moala, Sioeli, Pongpongi, Melopiisi, and Siosaia. Taufa’ao’s children would like to express our gratitude to Rev. ‘Atamoni Longolongofolau and his family, Quality Home and Hospice, and of course to his favorite nurse of all time, Makell, for the loving care of our Dad.