Fa'anu Laufiso's Obituary
With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved Fa’anu Laufiso, who courageously fought cancer for many years and left us on June 25, 2024, at the age of 71. A loving husband, devoted father, and cherished friend, Fa’anu touched the lives of all who knew him with the immense kindness that defined everything he did and everything he was.
Fa’anu was born on September 13, 1952, in Nofoali'i, Samoa, to Siaoloa and Tusi Laufiso. He was well known in his village for his athletic ability on the rugby field, his musical talent, and his clever intelligence. He was a founding member of the popular musical group in Samoa called Rosa Pa’epa’e. In 1979 he moved to Hawaii to attend BYU-Hawaii, where he studied finance. While attending BYU he met the love of his life, his “manamea sweetheart” Desiree. They were married in the Hawaii LDS temple on June 20, 1981. Shortly after their marriage, Fa’anu joined the US military and relocated to the mainland and eventually Utah, where he had a successful career in finance, and found joy in his work and great satisfaction in providing for his family. He and Desiree raised eight children in the Clearfield/Syracuse area, building and cultivating a family culture full of laughter, love, and deep friendship.
Fa’anu was a faithful member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He was a true Christlike example, always ready with a warm smile and friendly hello. He embodied the teachings of Jesus Christ through his kindness, humility, and dedication to helping others. His gentle spirit and generous heart touched so many, leaving a legacy of love and faith.
Fa’anu taught his children the value of hard work, integrity, quiet dignity, and above all, love. He cherished every moment spent with his family, especially the jam sessions of singing and playing guitar with the family for hours. He was always a chill and pleasant companion, happy to be along for the ride, wanting nothing more than to spend time with those he loved the most.
Even in his battle with cancer, Fa’anu showed remarkable courage and resilience. He faced each challenge with dignity and grace, always maintaining a hopeful outlook and an indomitable spirit living 18 years past a 2-year prognosis. His strength during these difficult times inspired all who witnessed his journey.
Fa’anu is survived by his loving wife, Desiree; his children, Corina (Shane), Jared (Kyle Alexandra), Malia (Mat), Julia (Will), Stephen (Bree), Melissa (Kaden), and Joshua; his grandchildren, Alexandra, Emma, Grey, Lily, and Graham, and extended family members who will forever love and remember him. He is preceded in death by his daughter Leilani; his granddaughters Autumn and Olivia; his parents, Siaoloa and Tusi; and his siblings Atina and Oferia.
A celebration of Fa’anu’s life will be held on Saturday, June 29th from 12pm - 1pm at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints chapel at 535 W 2700 S, Syracuse Utah. The service will include a viewing from 9:30am - 11:30am at the chapel, allowing family and friends to pay their respects. Following the service, there will be a graveside ceremony at Lindquist Mortuary in Layton, located at 1867 N Fairfield Rd, Layton, Utah, where Fa’anu will be laid to rest.
For those who are unable to attend in person, a live stream of the service will be available at https://zoom.us/j/94571191964?pwd=LxL7SkV8HF2VL08QHJIl8XbWyNnzLm.1 (passcode: 304014).
Rest in peace, Fa’anu. We love you so much.
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