Michael A Napoleone

Michael Napoleone, a loving son, brother, nephew, cousin, fiancé and cherished member of his extended Bentley and Thomsen families passed away peacefully just past midnight on Christmas Day December 25, 2023, at the age of 33. He bravely battled Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia with his family by his side and was blessed with numerous prayer warriors faithfully supporting his fight.

Born on April 14, 1990, Michael was hardworking, reliable, loyal, and dedicated. He was baptized Catholic and received his Holy Sacraments at the Holy Family Parish, American Samoa. He started at Manulele Elementary, then attended Leone High School and graduated from Iakina Adventist Academy; he showed equal dedication and loyalty to both high schools. He attended American Samoa Community College. He worked as an Information Technology (IT) specialist for the American Samoa Government, part time for Transportation Security Administration until he decided to relocate to Seattle, Washington in 2016 for better life opportunities.

He was ambitious and strived to prove himself worthy. He secured a position with biotechnology company Juno Therapeutics and performed well. Later he decided it was time to return home after COVID-19 to help build his family home. Meanwhile, he worked for his friend Tiger Budbill and his wife Shannon refurbishing apartments before his diagnosis in November 2022.

He was talented and gifted with a beautiful, soulful voice. He loved to sing karaoke. He was kind and generous with whatever he had to give. He would stand up for those that others might have dismissed. No matter what was happening in his life, Michael always kept a positive attitude. He was witty and always quick with a come-back and a boisterous laugh. His family meant the world to him, and we are grateful that, over the last 4 years, he found love with his fiancé Finau.

He is survived by his mother, sister, uncles, aunties, and cousins who love him dearly. His memory will forever be cherished by those who knew and loved him.