Tevita Tu'ipulotu Lavaka

Tevita Tu’ipulotu Lavaka March 16, 1970 – October 11, 2025 Tevita “Pulotu” Tu’ipulotu Lavaka, 55, of Ogden, Utah, passed away peacefully on October 11, 2025. Pulotu was born on March 16, 1970, in Faga’alu, American Samoa, to Tevita and Fapuiaki Lavaka. He was the fifth of their children. In 1973, the family migrated to Oahu, Hawaii, and later settled in West Valley City, Utah, in 1977. Pulotu graduated from Kahuku High School in 1989. In 1994, he enlisted in the United States Army and served proudly for three years. In 1997, he met Danielle, and the two were married in March of 2003. Together they raised six wonderful children. Pulotu was a loving dad, uncle, brother, and friend. He coached his children’s sports teams and took great pride in his family. Known for his warm hugs and big heart, Pulotu had a presence that made others feel safe and cared for. He loved music of all kinds—rock, reggae, and country—and he danced like no one was watching. He was a humble man who often worked behind the scenes, helping others without seeking recognition. Strong, protective, funny, and kind, Pulotu was someone you could always count on. He is survived by his partner, Natalie Olson; his son, Jermaine; and the mother of his children, Danielle Lavaka, along with their children: Savanah (Dominic) Patrick and their daughters Stella and Ivy; Olivia (Solomon) Tuliaupupu and their children Tahalofa Tu’ipulotu and Ualosi; Avery Auna Lavaka (Daniel Aneo); Levi Lavaka; Fapuiaki Nenie Lavaka; and Daniel Tevita Lavaka. He is preceded in death by his parents, Tevita and Fapuiaki Lavaka. He is also survived by his siblings Amanaki Siuhengnalu, Mary (Viliami) Tonata, Gustaf Lavaka, Larry Lavaka, Joceleen Lavaka, Rosella (Edward) Vehikite, Stephanie (Tevita) Finau, Sela (Sione) Vailahi, Tapukitea (Moe Pau’atu) Fonoti, and Feofa’aki Lavaka. Services A viewing will be held on Sunday, October 19,, 2025 from 6:00 to 10:00 p.m. LDS Chapel 8350 S. Jackson St. Midvale, UT 84047 Funeral services Monday, October 20, 2025 from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. Bishop’s program from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m LDS Chapel 8350 S. Jackson St., Midvale, UT 84047 Interment will follow at the West Jordan City Cemetery 7925 S. 1300 W. West Jordan, UT 84088

Tevita Tu'ipulotu Lavaka

March 16, 1970 - October 11, 2025