Setoga Setoga Obituary
Tai was born June 7, 1953, in American Samoa to Folaugatuimanu'a Setoga Setoga, Jr. and Faletolu Punaoa Lefiti. He grew up in San Francisco, California, where he excelled academically, athletically, and musically. In 1970, he was named a high school All American. In 1971, he became the first Polynesian athlete invited to play in the North-South Shrine Game. He attended UC Berkeley 1971-1975 majoring in Sociology.
On October 26, 1975, Tai married the love of his life, Agatha Se'etia U'u. Together they raised three children: Setoga Toma Setoga IV, Tiffany Tauvela Tifa'imoana (Uila Maseuli), and Trinidad Faletolu (Sunia Kinikini). He also cherished his grandson, Kime Takapautolo Kinikini Tu'akoi.
A gifted musician, Tai played trumpet, piano, and guitar. He directed choirs at the South San Francisco and San Francisco Samoan Methodist Churches, leading them to several competition victories. Professionally, he was a talented designer and drafter, contributing to major California projects including Lucasfilm's Big Rock Ranch, the Monterey Bay Aquarium, Oracle Park, and Levi's Stadium.
He is survived by his wife, children, grandson, and siblings and their families: Puataunofo Aumavae (Pemasa), Abigail AhSue (Robert), Gwendolyn Eseroma (Diego), Thomas Setoga, Uilau Ena (Peteru), Rebecca Tofiga (Vesi), Helen Lutu (Saimalie), Marie Paaloalo, Mary Galeai (Setu), and Joe Lefiti (Su'e). He was preceded in death by his parents and brother Joeita Iofi Lefiti.
Services will be held Tuesday, September 30, 2025, from 9:30–11:00 AM at Tate Mortuary, 110 S Main Street, Tooele, UT. Interment will follow at Tooele City Cemetery at 11:00 AM.
Tai will be remembered for his wisdom, generosity, and unwavering love for his family. His legacy of faith, knowledge, and music will live on in all who knew him.
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110 South Main Street P.O. Box 569, Tooele, UT 84074
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