Walter "Uota" Tonata

Walter "Uota" Tonata passed away peacefully from this life on September 21, 2025, in Vineyard, Utah, surrounded by his loving family and loved ones. He was born on June 6, 1977, at the LBJ Tropical Medical Center in Faga'alu, American Samoa, to Sui Foloiano Tonata and Anaise Leihulu Tonata.

He was a gentle giant, quiet in nature but immense in spirit. Though he was a man of few words, his warmth was unmistakable-to meet him was to feel like you were instantly family. Walter was a man of great character and an unwavering work ethic, known for being a hard-working man who was defined by his deeds, not his words. He attended St. Theresa Elementary School in Leone and later graduated from Leone High School in 1995.

Walter was a dedicated and diligent worker throughout his life. He worked at several companies, to name a few: NPT (North Park Transportation), FedEx, and Liberty Press. He truly loved his work and enjoyed that it always kept him busy. He took immense pride in a job well done, and his strong work ethic was appreciated by all who worked alongside him.

On February 24, 1996, Walter was baptized a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. On May 29, 2010, he married Tisina Fakatoumafi. Above all else, Walter's life was defined by his profound love for his family. His greatest joy was found in the simple moments he shared with his wife, Tisina, and their children. He cherished watching them grow and was their biggest champion. This was never more true than on the sidelines of football games or on the golf course. He not only loved supporting his children in the sport, but he was an avid golfer himself, finding peace, focus, and quiet joy on the green. He taught his children to be strong, to be dependable, and to be true to their values, showing them through his own quiet example what it means to love and support one another unconditionally.

He will be deeply missed by his family, who were the center of his world. He was preceded in death by his parents, Sui Foloiano and Anaise Leihulu Tonata, and his brother, Sione Moeaki. He is survived by his loving wife, Tisina Fakatoumafi, who stood by his side through every joy and challenge; his children, Sione Tonata, Ana Justice Fakatoumafi, Maui Walter Tonata, Sui Fololiano Tonata, and Tevita Tauakipulu Tonata; and his siblings, Etuatina Havili, Seini Vatuvei, and Maui Tuakiapimahu. He was a dedicated and loving father, and his memory will be cherished by his beloved nieces and nephews. To them, he was a source of quiet strength-a protector and supporter whose kindness and unconditional love left a lasting mark on their hearts. His proud smile will be deeply missed at every family gathering.

Funeral Services

A Nofo'aki Putu will be held on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, at The Tonata Residence, 8 East Sterling Loop, Vineyard, Utah 84059.

A Family Viewing, or 'Apo' Viewing, will take place on Thursday, October 2, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM at Nelson Mortuary, 4780 N University Ave, Provo, UT 84064.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, October 3, 2025, at his home chapel, 1471 S Geneva Rd, Orem, UT 84058. A Family Program will be held from 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM, followed by a Bishop's Program from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM.

A Graveside Dedication and Burial Service will be held immediately following the Bishop's Program at the Pleasant Grove Cemetery, 500 N Main Street, Pleasant Grove, UT 84062.