Mele Tu’Ipulotu Takai

Mele Tu’ipulotu Takai was the true definition of angelic as she elegantly reflected every aspect of the word. Her warm charm would bring a fiery and vibrant fire and passion into the lives of those around her. She was the foreperson for her family after the loss of her mother Mele Vunivola Takai to Covid-19 in 2020 – she used her undeniable humor and amulet character to bring light to those around her during difficult times. As her family mourns the great and unbearable loss that her passing brings; they refer to her strong character and love of God for comfort.
At the young age of 25, our beautiful and sweet Mele peacefully took her rest at her home on the 16th of August, 2023. Mele was born on August 30th, 1997 to her parents ‘Amanaki Ta’ehoko Takai of Fo’ui, Tonga and Mele Vunivola Fangupo of Kolomotu’a. She was born alongside her twin sister, Mele Tangikina Takai who unfortunately was a stillborn baby.
Mele was the younger sister of Fa’avae ‘O Hififo Takai and the older sister of Tapule Veapina Takai – in whom she thought the world of. She was also a new aunt to her newborn nephew, ‘Amanaki Ta’ehoko Soatani Takai who filled the last couple weeks of her life with extreme joy and happiness.
Mele graduated from Granger High School in 2015 and continued her education at Southern Utah University (SUU) for two years and later at Salt Lake Community College (SLCC). During her time at SUU, she was an active member of the Women’s Rugby team and the Pacific Islander Student Association. Her dedication led her to be chosen for the National Society of Leadership and Success. She was loved by her community and left an impact amongst her former colleagues and friends.
A devoted member of the Laumalie Ma’onioni Free Wesleyan Church of Tonga (FWCT), Mele also contributed as a youth leader and advocate. No matter how busy life got, she remained a spiritual person and implemented her faith into every aspect of her life. She loved her church and everyone who knew her can testify that her loving embrace was the essence of who she was as a person and as a Christian.
Mele is survived by her father, Amanaki Ta’ehoko Takai, her sisters, Fa’avae ‘O Hihifo Takai and Tapule Veapina Takai, and her nephew, ‘Amanaki Ta’ehoko Soatani Takai Jr. She is also survived by many brother and sister figures, as well as aunts and uncles.
Mele is preceded in death by her mother Mele Vunivola Takai and her twin sister Mele Tangikina Takai. Mele’s sassy and gentile character will be missed by those who knew her. To know her is to love her as she created strong bonds with everyone who crossed paths with her.
Her soft-spoken words and her giggly upbeat ambience make this “goodbye” a difficult one to bear. However, in true Mele Tu’ipulotu fashion, her family will be sending her off singing the night away and enjoying the lasting memories we’ve shared.
The Funeral arrangements, following Tongan protocols, will be conducted under the guidance of Mele’s Pastor who she loved very much, Reverend Filimone Havili Mone. The services are set to take place on Saturday the 26th of August 2023 at Memorial Redwood Mortuary and Cemetery located at 6500 S Redwood Rd, Salt Lake City, UT 84123. The viewing is scheduled from 8-11am, followed by the Pastor’s program at 11:30am and burial at 1:00pm. The Family of Mele Tu’ipulotu Takai extends their gratitude to all those who touched Mele’s life and prays for continued blessings upon each one of you.
“‘Oiau ‘a e monu’ia ha taha ‘oku ‘ilo ē, ko ‘ene hia kotoa pe kuo fakamolemole; ‘Oku ‘ikai kei lata ia ke nofo ‘i mamani, kae tangi hono ‘atamai, ‘Ko Langi hoku ‘api!’” ‘Ofa lahi atu!
Service Information
Viewing August 26, 2023 at
Redwood Memorial Mortuary





Funeral Service
August 26, 2023 at 11:00am
Redwood Memorial Mortuary