Our father was a firm believer in giving back, always. He was a patron of the arts and a dedicated community advocate.

He was a philanthropist who gave of his time and resources generously to many, often without anyone else knowing and was able to see the potential in a person, even when they couldn’t, and then helped nurture that potential.

Some of his service that we are aware of include the following: He was founder and driving force behind the work of the Samoa Historical Trust where he oversaw the publication of many vital records and books on Samoa.

As a proud US veteran of the Air Force during the Vietnam war, he was one of the founding members of the US Veterans in Samoa and actively engaged in their service projects and community outreach programs like the Samoa Perimeter Relay.

He was a big supporter of those with special needs and the Special Olympics in Samoa.  He was chair of Fa’ataua le Ola (FLO).

In his passing he left us a poem:

To Those I Love

When I am gone, release me, let me go

I have so many things to see and do

You mustn’t tie yourself to me with tears

Be happy that we had so many years. 

I gave you my love. You can only guess

How much you gave to me in happiness

I thank you for the love you have shown

But now it’s time I traveled on alone.

So grieve awhile for me if grieve you must

Then let your grief be comforted by trust

It’s only for a while that we must part

So bless the memories with your heart.

I won’t be far away, for life goes on

So if you need me, call and I will come

Though you can’t see or touch me, I’ll be near

And if you listen with your heart, you’ll hear

All of my love around you soft and clear.

And then, when you must come this way alone

I’ll greet you with a smile, and welcome you home.

Anonymous

He will be dearly missed by all whose lives he has touched.