Taniela Kauvakahiva Patetefa

“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures; He leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul; He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for His name’s sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for Thou art with me; Thy rod and Thy staff, they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies; Thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.” — Psalm 23

Taniela Kauvakahiva Patetefa, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend, returned peacefully to our Heavenly Father on January 24, 2026.

Born on May 27, 1948, in Kolomotua, Tongatapu, Taniela was the third of nine siblings. He was the son of Taniela Patetefa and Sinalelea Patetefa and was lovingly raised by his maternal grandparents, Mele and Mosese Ahau. In 1970, he came to the United States, where he later married the love of his life, Veilomani.

Known to all as Vaka, he was a devoted member of the United Tongan Methodist Church and a man of deep faith. Though quiet by nature, his giving hands did the talking, and his humble spirit was felt by all. He was funny and loved to joke with his family, bringing laughter and light into every gathering.

A simple man, he was free-spirited, easygoing, and welcoming to all. He found his greatest joy in spending time with his wife and family and was often the one to show his love through service and care during family functions. His home was always open to his nieces and nephews, a place where many found warmth, guidance, and belonging.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Veilomani; his children Daniel Ahau (Sinai), Sina, Vatuni (Cami), Amalani, Livi (Latu), Danibau (Tassia), and Ailine; 29 grandchildren; and 14 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his siblings Ana Moala Kinikini, Pua Fifita, Lopetisoni, and Ilaisaane Lotaki. Preceded in death by his father, Taniela Patetefa; his mother, Sinalelea Patetefa; his sister, Lopelini Hafoka; his brothers, Semisi, Faingamoevalu, and Vatuni Loka; his great-granddaughter, Nancy Elizabeth Salt; and his grandson, Tevita Vaenuku.

Though deeply missed, Vaka's legacy of faith, laughter, generosity, humility, and open-hearted love will live on through his family and all who were blessed to know him. We take comfort in knowing he now rests in the eternal presence of the Lord he faithfully served.

You may visit with the family during a viewing on Sunday, February 1, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 12:00 AM at The Church, located at 3650 West 4400 South, Salt Lake City, Utah.

An additional viewing will be held on Monday, February 2, 2026, from 6:00 to 10:00 AM, with funeral services beginning at 10:00 AM at the church.

Interment will follow the services at Memorial Redwood Cemetery, 6500 South Redwood Road, West Jordan, Utah.