Aloalo Maumausolo

Hey dad! Where you been? We all sure miss you. So happy you are pain-free and surrounded with loved ones right now: your mom, dad, sisters, brothers, nephew and so many friends.

I’m here at the beach and I know you are close. It is idyllic today. You and mom brought us to this beach a lot. Over the years, we hit so many beaches around the world: of course California, Hawaii and Samoa, but Tahiti, Japan, Vietnam, Bahamas, Mexico and Jamaica too. Florida, Alaska and Michigan as well (yes, Michigan has beaches). You certainly lived life well. And with the biggest, unforgettable smile.

“Thank you” is in order, Dad. Teaching world travel with your positivity and open arms ~ what a gift. That’s one of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned. And love. You have managed to exude an attitude that everyone welcomed all around the world, in the most diverse places and among total strangers. Then paid it forward by welcoming so many into our home ~ next level of generosity. I don’t think anyone in your presence was ever hungry, cold or unsafe. Thank you, Dad.

As for welcoming, our family is growing. Baby Avea arrived. She’s stunning and sweet. But you already know. You wore so many hats ~ husband, friend, coach, uncle, son, brother, Marine, teammate. I think it’s a toss up as to which was your favorite though: Grandpa or Dad. You planted so many life ‘seeds.’ Now you can watch them all grow, from the best seat in the house. You are a blessed man.

I could rattle off pages and pages of ‘seeds’ that you shared. It’s clear you accomplished a job well done. My sisters, their partners, John and I have received your beautiful message. I’m proud to say your seeds are thriving. These guys display your upstanding traits proudly: Alo is a provider; Andrew, so humble; Aliya, most empathetic; and Alani, balanced; lil Scia is so kind, Taya is focused, and Tasi forgiving. Danae is welcoming; Lainie is independent; Evan, so proud; One is protective and King so loyal. Aloalo Ray is determined and Avea, so precious. Quinneviere is creative; Abrie so honest. And mom ~ so unconditionally loving. Blend all these qualities and it’s easy to see our steadfast roots are from you: a true human work of art. Seeing you and mom together for 53 years too, just so inspiring.

People keep saying ‘your dad was my hero,’ ‘strongest man I knew,’ ‘one of a kind.’ After hearing your high school and college football achievements, Marine Corp honors and Recon feats, and now random-act-of-kindness stories, I concur, a billion fold. And I’m even more grateful.

You told me not to cry. I’m having a tough time with that one. I miss you so much. I find that I have time on my hands that used to be yours. I’d give it back in a heartbeat to hang out with you again, but I do know you are in the very best place now. I have no regrets. I did my best and will continue to do so. I want to set and lead the same example for our kids. We’re still learning, so I know we wouldn’t mind a little nudge here from there. Love you Dad. I’ll be right back.