'Alipeti Tukuafu To'a

'Alipeti (Ali) Tukuafu To’a

Born: August 7, 1938

Died: May 6, 2011

Ali was born the youngest of ten brothers and sisters to Samuela To’a Finau & Ana Fusi Vaea in Tu’anuku Vava’u Tonga.

Ali immigrated to the United States of America in 1968 where he made his home in Salt Lake City, UT.

He graduated high school in Tonga. Upon arrival in the US he began a long career in construction, and structural engineering. With limited formal education Ali became one of the first civilians to be certified by the Army Corps of Engineers as a master carpenter, electrician, plumber, machinist, welder, mason, and engineer, without completing the necessary apprenticeship programs. Ali worked for over 50 years in his field building hundreds of commercial and residential buildings from the West Coast to the Mid West. 

Ali was married to Kaati Fonua (Albert, Eni Lyla) from 1968-1975, and then to Janet Daly (Maikeli) 1975-1999, and is survived by both. While marriage may not have been his strong suit, respect and gratitude for the gift of his children never faded. 

Ali is survived by his children and grandchildren. Albert (Jennifer), Maikeli Tukuafu(Heti), and Step-Father to Eni Lyla (Saia) Moimoi. Grandpa, or Papa as he was known to Madicyn Seini, Sydni Kilina, Samuela Viliami, Maikeli Tangiloto he Manatu, Asipau Beverly Fononga mei Langi, and adopted grandfather to Lave Willis, Michele Willis, and Justin Willis. He was preceded in death by both parents and five of his sisters (Seini, Lata, Susana, Moli, and Lesila) and one brother (Sione Ma’u). Ali has two sisters (Uinise, and Selai) and one brother (Samuela Mote) that survive him and reside in New Zealand.

Ali loved spending time with his family, playing music and singing. He was known throughout the Tongan community as a masterful musician. He enjoyed talking about and teaching others his craft, both in the construction field and musically. He shared his expertise in these fields freely, countless numbers have benefited from his knowledge. He was generous and giving of his time, love and whatever substance he had.

May God grant us the peace & strength to live in the world without him, for it will be the hardest thing we've ever had to do. But one day, we will be with him again in Paradise! Until then, heaven is a better place!

A viewing will be held on Thursday, May 12^th, 2011 from 6 to 9 PM, with a service beginning at 9:00 PM at the Tongan United Methodist Church, 1553 W. Crystal Ave., West Valley City.  Funeral services will be held on Friday, May 13^th, 2011 at 11:00 AM also at the church.  Interment to follow at Larkin Sunset Gardens, 1950 East 10600 South, Sandy.