Mika Maiava

With deep love and gratitude for a life well lived, the family of Niuafolau Mika Mikaele Maiava announces his passing and celebrates the legacy of faith, family, hard work, and devotion that he leaves behind.

Mika was born on July 9, 1939, in Apia, Western Samoa, to Taufaalili Valelia Ah-Tong and Filipo Iosefo Seu. Raised in Apia, he grew up during a time when educational opportunities were limited, yet he distinguished himself as an exceptional academic achiever. He attended Marist Brothers High School, where his intelligence, discipline, and dedication to learning set him apart from his peers.

While living in Apia, Mika met the love of his life, Feagai Leniu. Their relationship blossomed into a lifelong partnership, and they were united in marriage on August 4, 1962. Together they built a strong and loving family, welcoming six children: Etimani, Elisapeta, Mataniu (Max), Poto, Philip, and Michael. Through every season of life, Mika remained a devoted husband, father, and provider whose greatest joy was caring for his family.

Throughout his working years, Mika demonstrated an unwavering commitment to diligence and responsibility. He worked as a machinist and later enjoyed a long career with the Weyerhaeuser Paper Company. His dedication to excellence and concern for the well-being of those around him earned him recognition with a safety award honoring his career of safe work and service with the company.

Mika's life journey took him across the Pacific and beyond. After his early years in Apia, Western Samoa, he and his family lived in Auckland, New Zealand, for a decade before making their home in Honolulu, Hawaii, where they spent 42 years creating lasting memories and strong community ties. Later, Mika resided in Las Vegas, Nevada, for four and a half years before spending the final year of his life in Salem, Oregon.

Outside of work, Mika enjoyed many pastimes that brought him happiness and fellowship. He loved playing cards and board games, where his competitive spirit and good humor were always on display. He was an enthusiastic sportsman who enjoyed rugby, softball, and cricket, and he enjoyed his times at the casino playing slot machines. Whether gathered around a game table, on the playing field, or spending time with family and friends, Mika's presence brought laughter, stories, and treasured memories.

At the center of Mika's life was his unwavering Catholic faith. He remained faithful to his beliefs throughout his life, finding strength, guidance, and purpose in his relationship with God. He was equally devoted to his Samoan heritage and faithfully upheld the traditions, values, and cultural practices that were so important to him.

Above all else, Mika will be remembered as a dedicated family man, a hardworking provider, and a loving patriarch whose sacrifices and devotion enriched the lives of those he loved. His legacy lives on through the family he cherished and the example he set through a lifetime of faith, perseverance, and unconditional love.

Mika is survived by his beloved wife of many years, Feagai Maiava; his siblings, Luafalealo Ponifasio Atonio, Etevise Peka S Uiagalelei, Siliato (Salevao), Kika (Kolotita Telesia)(Luafalealo), Malia Kalameli F Alefosio, Filipo Jr., and Malia Telesia; his adopted brother Leo; his children, Etimani, Elisapeta, Mataniu (Max), Poto, Philip, and Michael; his grandchildren, Elizmaria, Esther, Elizabeth, Feagai (Minna), Chavez, Max (Mika), Megan, Shanick, Ciera, Marisa, Sydnie, Matthew, Micah, Michael (Mikey); and 13 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and his siblings Nusi, and Pina.

Though he will be deeply missed, Mika's family finds comfort in the countless memories he created, the values he instilled, and the enduring love he shared. His life was a blessing, his memory a treasure, and his legacy a gift that will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.