Tutulupeatau Mataele

Born on August 13, 1949, in Tongatapu, Tonga, to Heamasi Latu Mataele and Neomai Lolo Moungaloa, Tutulu lived a life defined by faith, service, hard work, integrity, and love for others. From an early age, he possessed a vibrant spirit, a natural gift for entertaining, and a genuine love for people that would become a hallmark of his life. He had a way of lighting up every room he entered often with laughter, a story, or a joke that left everyone smiling.

After moving to Hawaiʻi, Tutulu attended Kailua High School, where his talents in Polynesian dance and music flourished. His captivating stage presence led to opportunities as a Principal Dancer for the renowned Hawaiian Hut and Tavana in Honolulu. Whether through dance, music, or storytelling, he brought joy to countless people while proudly sharing the beauty of Polynesian culture. He loved making people laugh and believed life was meant to be enjoyed, especially when shared with family and friends.

Tutulu later moved to Los Angeles, California, where he met the love of his life, Etiliana Fifita. Together they built a life centered on faith, family, and hard work before settling in Utah, where they raised their family and created a lasting legacy of love and devotion.

A proud veteran of the United States Marine Corps, Tutulu honorably served his country during the Vietnam War. His military service helped shape the discipline, resilience, and leadership that characterized his life and earned him the nickname “The General” among family and friends. The title fit him well not because he demanded attention, but because he naturally commanded respect. And, much like a General, he often seemed to hold everyone to standards that were somehow higher than what anyone realized had been established in the first place.

Above all, Tutulu was a devoted disciple of Jesus Christ. His faith guided every aspect of his life and was reflected in the way he loved, served, and cared for others. Whether serving in church callings, helping neighbors, or offering encouragement to those in need, he lived his testimony through kindness, humility, compassion, and selfless service. He believed that doing what was right mattered, whether anyone was watching or not. Integrity was not simply something he taught, it was something he lived every day.

One of Tutulu’s most cherished qualities was his ability to make everyone feel welcome. He often greeted others with the simple phrase, “Hello, My Friend,” words that reflected the warmth, respect, and genuine love he extended to all who crossed his path. To hear those words was to immediately feel seen, valued, and accepted.

Known for his remarkable craftsmanship and strong work ethic, Tutulu could build, repair, and improve nearly anything. From landscaping and irrigation systems to countless projects for family and friends, his hands left a lasting mark, just as his generosity left a lasting impression on those he served. If a job was worth doing, it was worth doing right and preferably better than expected. Family members quickly learned that when Tutulu inspected a finished project, there was always a chance he would quietly point out three things that could still be improved. Not because he was critical, but because excellence mattered to him, and he believed people were capable of more than they often realized.

His sense of humor was as memorable as his work ethic. He loved teasing, storytelling, and finding ways to bring laughter into everyday moments. Even when offering advice or correction, he often did so with a smile, a joke, or a playful remark that made his lessons easier to remember. Those who knew him best will forever cherish the laughter he brought into their lives and the countless stories that will continue to be shared for generations.

Tutulu was reunited with loved ones who passed before him, including his parents; his brothers, Tupouniua, Kolomitoni, and Sionelolo; and his beloved sisters, Hola Kifinehika and Ofa Kipouono.

He is survived by his brothers Sione Hafoka Mataele, Feleti Mataele, Samuela Mataele, Esei Mataele, and Maika Mataele; his devoted wife, Etiliana Mataele; his children, Mayvera Mataele, Matealona Mataele, Valentaine Ataata, Luana Fa, Heamasi Mataele, Tutulupeatau Mataele II, and Veisinia Mataele; eighteen cherished grandchildren; and four beloved great-grandchildren.

Tutulu’s legacy is one of faith, service, culture, strength, integrity, humor, and love. He will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, veteran, entertainer, craftsman, and faithful follower of Jesus Christ. He taught his family not only through words but through example showing them how to work hard, laugh often, serve willingly, and always choose what is right. Though he will be deeply missed, his voice, laughter, teachings, and example will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew him.

His family finds comfort in the promises of the gospel of Jesus Christ and the knowledge that families can be together forever. They look forward with hope to the day they will be reunited again.

“Hello, My Friend.”

These simple words beautifully capture the way Tutulu lived with open arms, a welcoming heart, and genuine love for all. May we honor his memory by extending that same kindness and Christlike love to one another until we meet again.

And if there is work to be done when we get there, those who knew Tutulu can be certain of one thing: he will already have a plan, a higher standard than expected, and a loving reminder that the job can always be done just a little bit better.