Tupefaavae Shalom Auelua

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved Shalom Tupefaavae Auelua, who left us on July 17th, 2024. Born on February 13th, 1985, in American Samoa, Shalom was the cherished eldest child of Reverend Tupefaavae Ropati Auelua and the late counselor Salamasina Lautoa Satele-Auelua. He was the first grandchild of the late Lautoa and Sasa’e Satele, becoming one of the family’s most precious beings. He was also the oldest brother to two brothers and one sister, living a remarkable life as a deaf individual.

Shalom's journey was unique and inspiring. He attended the California School for the Deaf, where he excelled academically, graduating with honors, and also shined as a cheerleader. In his young adult years, Shalom pursued his dreams of acting and working in the movie industry. He even tried his hand at modeling for a while, always supported by his loving mom, Salamasina, who believed in his big dreams despite what others said.

Shalom had a taste for quality, loved reading, exploring new places, and traveling. He enjoyed visiting museums, beaches, and spending time with family. Shalom had a refined taste and appreciated the finer things in life, but he always deeply cared for his family and was a loving uncle and cousin. Unfortunately, his later years were challenging as he battled schizophrenia and respiratory issues. Despite these struggles, Shalom remained a peaceful, loving son, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend. He was very close to his mother and cherished both sides of his family deeply.

Now, Shalom rests peacefully in heaven with his mom, Salamasina, and his grandparents from the Auelua and Satele families. We can imagine Shalom in heaven, exploring the most beautiful places, surrounded by the love and comfort of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, alongside his beloved mom and grandparents.

We will always remember Shalom as a wonderful son, brother, uncle, and cousin who taught us to dream big and be true to ourselves. We love you so much, Shalom, and look forward to the day we meet again.

Rest in peace, Shalom Tupefaavae Auelua. Your spirit will always be with us.