Grandpa's Funeral, Day 1

Tevita did get to read the poem he wrote (see 1.14 post). We arrived at Salt Lake City on Tuesday Jan. 15th in the afternoon and Tevita went on Tala Koula, the Tongan radio show, that evening. He was asked to take part in announcing Grandpa's passing and did so with the poem. Here is a photo of him in the studio.

He's with Mata Finau. A long time friend of the family. Also, one of many who worked hard for the funeral.


Fahina Tavake is one of those amazing women that exist once in a lifetime. She was tireless in organizing and making Grandpa's 'apo (wake) and funeral services the most beautiful we've ever seen. Her love for Grandpa Tonga and the family was quite evident in the hours of labor she performed for the family.

We wish we had more photos of her in action but our camera had a bit of a glitch during our stay in Utah. We are working on getting pictures from other sources.