Frank Ifale Leaututu's Obituary
Frank Ifale Leaututu, also known as Nowell Franklin Leaututu, was born on July 20, 1990, to Frank Ifale Leaututu and Catherine Jean Simpson. He was the youngest of their children. Nowell passed away at the age of 34 on February 8, 2025, in Murray, Utah.
Nowell was blessed with a beautiful daughter who meant the world to him, a large and loving family, and many great friends whom he considered family. He was the life of the party, full of energy, and deeply passionate about music and art. In his free time, he loved making music, writing, and creating designs. His social personality and kind heart made him a beloved presence in the lives of those around him.
Raised in West Jordan, Utah, Nowell formed many close friendships that he cherished throughout his life. As a young boy, he was very active in sports, including baseball, football, and wrestling, with his father coaching him in every sport. In 2016, he moved to Seattle, Washington, where he met Amber Hurt. Together, they started their family when their daughter, Eila Chelise Leaututu, was born on August 31, 2018. Nowell and Amber were devoted parents, teaching Eila to talk, count, and recognize colors at a young age. Though their time with her was short, they raised her with immense love and dedication.
On December 12, 2021, Nowell became the godfather of his great-nephew, Manny Malosi Esparza. He embraced this role wholeheartedly, always making efforts to be present in Manny’s life and support him in any way he could.
Nowell is survived by his daughter, Eila Chelise Leaututu; his father, Frank Ifale Leaututu (Serena); his mother, Catherine Jean Simpson; and his sisters Chelise Mele Leaututu, and Channell Pina Taufalele (Chance). He also leaves behind his cherished nieces and nephews: Shie Taulana Tuimauga, Julian Pailate Tuimauga, Leiana Tulili’au Vailea, Camilla Pina Taufalele, Alysha Channell Matua, Cassius Randy Ifale Taufalele, and his beloved godson, Manny Malosi Esparza.
He is preceded in death by his cousin, Anthony James Dowland; his maternal grandparents, James Nowell Simpson and Tulili’au Leiataua Simpson; and his paternal grandparents, Ifale Asiasi Leaututu and Filipina Crighton Leaututu.
Celebration of Life
A Celebration of Life will be held in Nowell’s honor on March 1, 2025, at Centro Cívico Mexicano (155 South 600 West, Salt Lake City, UT 84101) from 1:00 PM to 7:00 PM. His family and friends warmly invite all who wish to attend and celebrate his life.
Nowell’s memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who loved him.
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