Ilaise Kilisitina Vainikolo Tukuafu

We are filled with gratitude as we honor the beautiful life of our beloved mother, Ilaise Kilisitina Vainikolo Tukuafu, who peacefully transitioned to her next journey on September 11, 2024, at the age of 71. Ilaise was a shining light of love, strength, and grace, and while we will miss her dearly, we celebrate the countless ways she enriched our lives. Her spirit will forever inspire us, and we hold her memory close to our hearts with love and appreciation. Born on December 29, 1952 in Kameli Vava'u, Tonga, to Eikipeavale Vainikolo and Seilala Pasikala, and was a Sister to: Tevita V. Vainikolo (Elina) Amelia F. Vainikolo (Siale) Mele L. Vainikolo (Asipeli) Siosateki Vainikolo (Leody) Sione V. Vainikolo (Sesilia) Ilaise embodied a spirit of warmth and compassion that touched the hearts of everyone she met. A devoted mother, grandmother, and friend, she dedicated her life to nurturing those around her with unfailing kindness and an open heart. Ilaise’s laughter was a joyful melody that brightened every day, while her wisdom guided us through life’s challenges. Ilaise was a woman of remarkable resilience, who faced life's trials with unwavering courage. She had a firm testimony of the truthfulness of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, and was dedicated to her membership in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. She lived as a disciple of Jesus Christ. Her deep faith and unwavering belief in the power of love served as the foundation of our family. She had an extraordinary gift for making everyone feel cherished and valued, and her home was always a sanctuary filled with warmth, delicious meals, and heartfelt conversations. On September 29, 1978, she united in marriage with Viliami Kauvaka Tukuafu. Together, they nurtured a beautiful family, welcoming four beloved children: Fiefia (Ofa) Tonga Jackson (Lauren) Viliami (Krystal) Siosateki (Elisa) With unwavering devotion, she supported and cherished her husband, who had previously fathered and cared for 21 children from his first marriage: Eveline (Petelo) Kaufusi Samiu (Ofa) Makalita (Euta) Mulitalo Fanga (Luseane) Ku'ulei Mo(Semisi) Lavaka Aisake (Lose) Talangofua Kavamahea (Gary) Haiola Heamasa (Holly) Tipasa (Melini) Sungalu (Ametisi) Finau (Mele) Silivenusi Avalisi (Ola) Lapu'aho Paea Latu FeoFaaki (Siale) Wailase Ana (Toa) Afu Embracing the roles of both mother and stepmother with grace, she exemplified steadfast dedication to her family. Her nurturing spirit has also made her a cherished grandmother to over 95 grandchildren, a testament to the love and legacy she continues to cultivate. She is survived by her loving children, Fiefia Tukuafu-Tonga (Ofa Tonga), Jackson Monuia Tukuafu Lavulavu (Lauren), Viliami Tukuafu (Krystal), Siosateki Tukuafu Lavulavu (Elisa), Her cherished grandchildren: Fiefia (Ofa) Kulaea Tonga, Viliami Tonga, Tuitalau Tonga, and Etuate Tonga Jackson (Lauren) Isabella, Beckam, Cruz and Jack. Wiliami (Krystal) Naiya Jean, Lana, Kingston and Will. Siosateki (Elisa) Maddison Seilala, Taua‘ana Tyson, and Siosateki Hunter. And a host of family and friends who will forever hold her memory close. Each of us carries a piece of her spirit within us, and we will strive to honor her legacy of love and kindness in our own lives. As we gather to celebrate Ilaise’s remarkable life, we are reminded of her favorite saying: “Love is the greatest gift you can give.” In that spirit, we invite all who knew her to join us in sharing stories, laughter, and tears as we pay tribute to an extraordinary woman who enriched our lives in countless ways. A Family Home Evening and Viewing in her honor will be held on; Thursday, September 19, 2024 Cannon Stake Center 934 Fremont Ave, Salt Lake City, Utah 84104 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm We also welcome you to Funeral Services the following day on; Friday, September 20, 2024 Cannon Stake Center 934 Fremont Ave, Salt Lake City, Utah 84104 10:00 am – 1:00 pm Family program 1:30 pm to 2:30 pm Bishop’s program Burial Service will follow at; Redwood Memorial Estates 6500 South Redwood Road West Jordan, Utah 84084 3:30pm. In lieu of flowers, customary gifts or traditions, the family requests that you join us in celebration of this wonderful woman. Though she has left this earthly realm, Ilaise Kilisitina Vainikolo Tukuafu will forever live on in our hearts and memories. May her soul rest in eternal peace, and may we carry her love with us always. Until we meet again, ‘Ofa lahi atu!

Ilaise Kilisitina Vainikolo Tukuafu

December 29, 1952 - September 11, 2024