Kauasi Vakehekehe Mataele

Kauasi Tuku’aho Po Nima ‘i Mala’ekula Vakehekeha Mataele

May 6, 1936 – August 16, 2026

Kauasi Tuku’aho Po Nima ‘i Mala’ekula Vakehekeha Mataele, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, faithful servant of the Lord, and friend, peacefully returned to his Heavenly Father on August 16, 2026, in Honolulu, Hawai‘i, at the age of 90.

Kauasi was born on May 6, 1936, in Fo‘ui, Tonga, to Sione Lolomanaia Mataele and Elenoa Mē Brown Mataele. He was the tenth of fifteen children and was raised in Tonga, where he developed a deep love for his family, his homeland, and the people around him.

From a young age, Kauasi was an exceptional athlete and a gifted rugby player. His love and talent for the sport continued throughout his life. After moving to Hawai‘i, he had the opportunity to play rugby for the Barbarians, creating memories and friendships that remained meaningful to him.

Kauasi was also a hardworking and respected businessman. After making Hawai‘i his home, he established KT Mataele Contractors, a business he operated for more than 45 years. Through his hard work, integrity, and commitment to excellence, KT Mataele Contractors became a highly respected and reputable business throughout the island. His work was not simply a career—it was a reflection of his character, determination, and desire to provide for and serve his family.

Faith was at the center of Kauasi’s life. He was a devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and served the Lord faithfully in many capacities throughout his life. He served a labor mission in New Zealand and dedicated many years to serving in Church leadership. He served for 15 years in bishoprics, including six years as the bishop of the Manoa Ward.

Of all the ways he served, one of Kauasi’s greatest joys was serving as a temple worker. His love for the temple and the Lord was evident in the way he lived his life. He was a faithful example of devotion, service, and covenant keeping, and his testimony touched the lives of many.

Kauasi’s greatest legacy, however, will always be his family. He was a devoted husband to his beloved wife, Elissa Mataele, and a loving father who took great pride in his children and their families.

He is survived by his loving wife, Elissa Mataele of 46 years, and his children:

Kalo Feao (Esafe), Tangikimoana Atiga (Joe), Hola Latu (Kaivai), Ruby Hansen (Eddie), Maitland Mataele (Lavinia), Mafile‘o Mataele (Heleni), Teana Ho‘opai, Katinia Qoro (Semi), and Andre Mataele, and his last remaining sister, Kaloline Mataele Soukop

He was preceded in death by his beloved children, Elenoa Mē Tongolei (Hasimani) and Vaiola (Sosefina).

His legacy continues through his 55 grandchildren, 128 great-grandchildren, and 37 great-great-grandchildren. Together, they represent generations of love and the beautiful family he helped build.

He is also survived by his nieces and nephews, extended family, and countless friends and loved ones whose lives were blessed by his example.

Kauasi will be remembered for his unwavering faith, strong work ethic, athletic spirit, love of family, service to the Lord, and the countless ways he gave of himself to others. His life was one of faith, perseverance, service, and love.

His family finds comfort in knowing that he has faithfully completed his earthly journey and returned to the presence of his Heavenly Father. We are grateful for the life he lived, the sacrifices he made, the lessons he taught, and the legacy of faith and love he leaves behind.

“Well done, thou good and faithful servant.”

Matthew 25:21

He will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever cherished.