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Sione Folau Obituary
FOLAU, Sione ''Johnny''
Was born in Sacramento, CA at Kaiser Hospital to Sione Kifi Folau and Barbara Mele-Fepaki Pahulu Folau from the Kingdom of Tonga. Johnny was the older brother of Norman, Joseph, William, George and Salote Folau. Uncle of Elijah Sione. He was the grandson of George Folau, Toila Tuileila, Viliami Pahulu, Falefa Kefu and Lolohea Toimoana. From an early age he excelled in athletics and performed frequently with traditional Polynesian dance groups. Johnny graduated from Valley High School in 2004. While at Valley, he earned numerous awards and honors-including being named Homecoming King his senior year, and being selected to the All Delta League, All Metro, and All State teams in football. Johnny was also selected as Sac Joaquin Section Defensive Player of the Year. As a rugby player, he earned national recognition with the Islanders rugby club. He was named a High School All-American, and represented the University of Oklahoma and the United States national team in international competitions in England and Guyana. Johnny was passionate about Tongan culture and traditions, and learned readily from his parents and family. Johnny loved Reggae music and barbecue, and enjoyed both in abundance. He went on to attend Oklahoma City College and Sacramento City College. Johnny had planned to transfer to the University of California at Berkeley in spring 2008. Much like the Spartan king Leonidas, Johnny led by example, and by his deeds. He is loved and missed by family and friends all over the world. Friends are welcome for Visitation on Wednesday, Thursday or Friday from 10AM to 7PM in the East Lawn Elk Grove Mortuary, 9189 E. Stockton Blvd, Elk Grove and are respectfully invited to attend Funeral Services Saturday from 10AM to 2PM in the Liahona Ward Chapel, Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 24th & Gardendale, Sacramento. Interment will follow in East Lawn Elk Grove Cemetery.
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Memories and Condolences
for Sione Folau
I ALWAYSED HAD FUN WITH MY BIG BRO!!! HE WAS ONE OF A KIND!!! R.I.P. CLUTCH 300 I LOVE YOU
JOSEPH FOLAU
September 13, 2007
I LOVE YOU BIG BRO AND I WILL ALWAYS MISS YOU!!!! THANKSFOR ALWAYS LOOKING AFTER US EVER SINCE WE WERE SMALL!!! I LOVE YOU SO MUCH BIG JOHNNY!!!! YOU WILL ALWAYS REMAIN MY BIG BROTHER!!!
flicc of me and da famz showin some love at johnnys funeral
lethe gatoloai
August 21, 2007
rest in peace johnny....even though it won't be the same without you here on earth i know that the LORD needs you.....you are in a BETTER place....i hope and pray that your FAMILY will be at peace and understand GODS plan....i can never forgot your crazy self and ESPECIALLY them tight shirts....lol...rest in peace and love....
Natasha luna
August 20, 2007
I remember as if it were yesterday, Sione giving his 6th grade promotion speech at Union House Elementary. I knew there was something special about him, he was a natural leader. I had the pleasure of teaching PE to Sione when he was in the 6th grade. He was such a gentle soul, with a contagious and beautiful smile. He made his presence known in this lifetime, as we can see the many lives he touched in such the short twenty-one years he was here. My deepest condolences to all of the Folau Family...you are in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. He was such a precious gift, and I'm glad I had the opportunity to know him.
Respectfully,
Natasha Aguirre (Luna)
Jean-Marie Henoa
August 19, 2007
Hello Johnny, You will be sadly missed, and never forgotten you will always be in our hearts and may you rest in peace and may the angels guide you along the way, take care you were an awesome person to meet, and i will never forget you cuzzy Johnny...Love always your cousin Jean-Marie Henoa and Adam Porter from Auckland New Zealand
UNGA FAMILY
August 15, 2007
Johnny aka Clutch you were an *AMAZING* person & your vibrant loving spirit will always remain with us. Although your death was a tragedy we all know that you are in a much better place. Our hearts goes out to your beloved Parents & may GOD be with them. JOHNNY WE LOVE YOU & WILL NEVER EVER FORGET YOU!!!!!!
Elnora Fretwell
August 15, 2007
To John and Barbara, I am pleased that I was able to me your son at a young age, I remember when Sione and Martell would play together and spend the night at each others houses it seem just like yesterday. They knew each other from being neighobors they were good boys they graduated together from kindergated, Junior high and high school. They were even on the football team together. Sione always had a pleasent smile and was a very good person and very respectful. Sione was one of Martell best friends, Martell and I will truly miss him, and is truly blessed for being able to share a lot of good memories of Sione. My prayers will continue to go out to you and your family. Love(Martell's MOM)
Nani Autufuga
August 12, 2007
Though im Missin you..ill find a way to get threw..good verse huh bruh?..haha..Its true though..My Love an Prayers go out to the family..Keeep ya head up an dont give up the truth will come out sooner or later. I miss johnny who is my friend who was more like my older brother. I knoe hes in a better place an things for him couldnt get better..ill see him someday again...RIP BRO
LOVE NANI
rest in love johnny folau
Siva Saffing
August 11, 2007
HEY SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS.
EVEN THOUGH I NEVER KNOW WHO HE WAS.
BUT ALL MY FRIENDS RELATED TO HIM
AND THEY KEEP ON TALKING
ABOUT HIM AND FAMILY AND I FEEL
SO BAD ABOUT HIM.
I'M SO SORRY JOHNNY FOLAU
REST IN PEACE
johnny folau
Some of the Diablo kids on the Diablo Men's A-Side.
DIABLO RUGBY
August 11, 2007
Hey Johnny, It was always fun playin agenst Burbank. That's how we met eachother. Much love to the family and everyone from CONCORD RUGBY TEAM has there prayers out to your family. R.I.P. homie from da Diablo Team.
REST EASy BRO
Ani Tasila
August 11, 2007
HEy.UMM, iM REALLy SORRy FOR YOUR LOSS.
EVEN THOUGH i NEVER kNEW WHO HE WAS i
JUST WANTED TO OFFER My CONDOLANCES TO THE FAMiLy.
Joe & Daniel Duran
August 11, 2007
It didn't hit us at first until we started flipping through pages of th old year books. We're angry but sad at the same time. It was just yesterday you were at our house eating all our food beating us in Madden. It's amazing to see how much of an impact one person can have on so many people.
We'll all reunite one day and have a huge feast. All of us together again. We love you Johnny and we'll miss you.
WILL
August 11, 2007
rest easy big homie....you will be missed.
August 11, 2007
ALTHOUGH I HAVE NEVER BEEN BLESSED TO MEET YOU MYSLAEF MY BOYFARAAIEND ALWYS HAD NOTHING BUT GOOD WHEAN MENTIONING UAR NAMe HE ALWYAS SAYS THAT YOU WERE ONE OF THE FEW HOMIES WHO HE RAEALLY TRUSTED. MAYBE ONE DAY WE"LL MEET SOON IN HEAVEN FOR NOW MAY U RAEST INPARADISE AND MAY GOD WATCH OVER YOUR FAMILY AND GIVE THEM THE STRENGTH AND SERENITY IN THEIR HEARTS. GODD BLESS U ALL.
Maggie Steele
August 11, 2007
My husband teaches at Valley and knew and cared about Sione and siblings. As i have lost my own beloved brother to tragdey this year, I offer my own prayers of healing, support and strength. Your Sione lives on in the stars, the sun, the ocean breezes, and in the hearts of all thoes that knew him....let his great love for his family comfort you and know he would want you all to live your lives to fulfillment in honor of him...as you walk this path of mourning know you have a sista out there who on her journeys will say prayers in the sacred places of the peoples and I will say them for Sione you too. Most humbley
Maggie Steele
ken steele
August 11, 2007
My best wishes to the Folau family in this time of tragedy. As a teacher at Valley I didnt have the pleasure of having Sione as a student, but his reputation as a great athlete and person made me take notice. It just isn't right that he should pass so young - be strong and remember the best times.
Miguel Zavala
August 11, 2007
The Folau Family,
My condolences go out to your family. I am sorry for your loss. Please accept my deepest sympathies.
Tom Smith
August 10, 2007
Rest in Peace my young friend. I know that you will be watching over your friends and family just as you always have.
If God has an All Gaurdian Angel Team I'm positive you will be on it.
Coach Smith
Keli'i Lindo
August 10, 2007
Much Aloha to the Folau Family at this tragic loss of Sione. I met Sione several times when I spoke on Native Hawaiian culture and politics at Sac City College and when he participated in the march for Hawaiian rights in San Francisco. I saw him dance at several Pacific Islander gatherings. I also have great respect for all the contributions the Folau family have made for all Pacific Islander people in Sacramento. E pule 'au ke Akua e malama a me alaka'i pu 'o Sione Folau ma kona Lani 'aupuni me na aneli i ko keia 'ao ko kela 'ao-I pray that God take care of and lead always Sione into His Heavenly Kingdom now and always.
Deborah Triplett
August 10, 2007
It hurts my heart to lose a big sweet teddy bear like you.
Love you always!
Ms.Debbie
Judy Taxara
August 10, 2007
My heart goes out to John and Barbara and Sione's brothers. It is so hard to say what I want to say. Words cannot express what words cannot express. Just know you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Britney Fuller
August 10, 2007
It feels like yesterday seeing you walk the halls at valley,or watching you play the games. I still remember our little conversations here and there.Although we didnt talk a lot the time that we did meant so much. You are truly one and a million. You will always be in my heart.
Anish Singh
August 10, 2007
It was such a shock to hear about the loss of Sione. It seems that the best people leave this world so early on. Johnny was such a wonderful person that it is my belief that God did not want to wait to have him by his side. My prayers are with the Folau family during this difficult time. The hardest thing to deal with is losing a member of the immediate family. Take comfort in knowing he is in a better place. God Bless
Mr. John DePonte
August 9, 2007
My Deepest Condolences to the Folaus,
Sione is a perfect example of how the good ones sometimes are taken from us way too early in life. He was one of the most respectful young men that I have ever met and a great role model to his younger brothers and all who came into contact with him. To know Sione is to love him. He was a big Tongan Teddy Bear and one of the strongest kids that I have ever met. When I first met him as a 7th grader at Jackman, I shook his hand, and he nearly broke my hand. From then on, every time that I shook his hand, I had to make sure that I shook his hand with all of my strength (and try to look cool doing it) or else he would crush my hand. I was looking forward to hearing all of the good things that he would accomplish in his future. I'm deeply saddened to hear of his unfortunate passing. My support and Aloha go out to the Folaus in this time of need.
Aloha !
Beverley Moore
August 9, 2007
The first time I met Sione was when my son was in the same first grade class. I remember Sione as an outgoing good natured person who got along well with everyone. I had the privilege of watching Sione and his classmates grow until they completed elementary school. During high school our paths crossed a few times and he always had a greeting and big hug for me. May the memories of what a wonderful person he was help you through this time of sorrow. We will all miss him very much.
Ebber Christensen
August 9, 2007
Hey Sione!
I'm going to ramble a bit, so forgive me.
It's been a while, and Time has faded many memories, but Time hasn't taken away the smile that I get whenever I hear your name. Yeah, it's hokey, but there was always a presence and there will always be that presence, whenever I hear your name. When we met on the first day of school, you and your mom were still trying to figure out what you wanted to be called at school. "Sione" stuck with me. It was unique, cool, and it fit the big kid with the raspy voice perfectly. Sione, the kid with the heart of gold. I'm looking at the old kindergarten class picture and I see you hamming for the camera!
I have memories of you on Aloha Day and at kindergarten graduation at Union House, draped with leis.
Over the years I saw you a few times. And this year, I was hoping to see you more often. I like reggae music, too. Whenever I listen to the song "Bob, Peter, Bunny," I'll stick your name into the chorus. Seems appropriate, it's a song about teaching the love of music to children. That's a great memory to hold on to.
You'll always be in my heart, in my thoughts, and everywhere in the flowers, trees, the beauty of the world.
You'll be missed, but you'll always be with the ones whose hearts and lives you touched.
Linda Doose
August 9, 2007
I knew the Folau family years ago when our kids were in sports together and from Union House Elementary. I am saddened by this senseless tragedy. The Folaus will be in my thoughts and prayers. I wish them peace. Linda
Brit Williams
August 9, 2007
Folau Family,
Johnny was a wonderful young man, who touched the lives of many students,faculty & staff members at Sac City College. My thoughts & prayers are with you.
Elton Meneses
August 9, 2007
After hearing about Johnny's death on the news. I read the Funeral Notice Guestbook. I felt compelled to say something.
My 17 year old daughter was given an early(3 months) graduation and diploma from Valley High in March 2003. She died of brain cancer just a few days later.
Back then, I rememeber hearing about Johnny's excellent football skills. I had no idea what a great person Johnny was, until I read the Guestbook!
To the Folaus, I feel your loss of a geat young person, who was on the way to success and possibly greatness.
My daughter was elected Capt. of the Swim Team, when she was a Sophomore, just as she began her battle with cancer.
Our losses are similar. We are exclusive members of a "club"(in which no one wants to be).
After honoring Johhny at his funeral and placing his body at rest, you should begin the healing process by taking comfort in knowing that TIME(lots of it) will make your loss more bearable. Your BELIEF in GOD will help you understand why He took Johhny back to Heaven, so soon.
My late daughter was Sara Leilani Meneses(Valley High 2003).
Feel free to contact me.
Gartia Bansah
August 9, 2007
The Bansah Family (Nyuieko, Senam, and parents, extend our prayers to and ask God to watch over the Folau family.
Kathleen Stratfull
August 9, 2007
Dearest Barbara and John, I have been missing all of you for 15 long years. Your son was some of the best of both of you, and I grieve deeply with you. I am so, so sorry. I am holding your hands.
Leticia Espinoza & Jasmin DelaRosa
August 9, 2007
I am so sorry for the loss of such a great young man. Although we did not know Johnny personally, we know and love George, please accept our most sincere condolences on the loss of Johnny. Thinking of you all and sending our prayers and deepest sympathy.
George - remember he is in Heaven Smiling down on you, your family and many friends. Be strong. Jazz and I love you and please let us know if there is anything we can do for you and/or your family. XOXOXOX
Rickey Han
August 9, 2007
I have been truly blessed and I am thankful to have known you throughout these years. I've known you since 5th grade at Union House and we've been brothers ever since. I still can't believe that you are gone and it gets to me everytime but you will never be forgotten. I'll see you again one day but until then watch over us. BE EASSSSYYYY!!! much love brotha.
Mary Merritt
August 8, 2007
To The Folau Family-
I want to give you a description of your son Sione: Kind, Caring, Wonderful, Great Sense of Humor, Great Smile, Good, Respectful. These are just some things that come to mind any time I think of Sione. I met Sione while working at Valley High School in after school tutoring. He loved to joke and make us laugh, but was very serious about his academics. He always had a smile, and would help with anything that needed to be done. He had a great sense of humor and could find the good in every situation. He had a contagious smile and I loved his laugh, and I looked forward to seeing him play football. He was a great example and role model to all those around him. I am very saddened by your loss as it is my loss too. I always told Sione he would do great things. I have been blessed to have known such a wonderful young man. You and your family need to know that your son / brother "Sione" touched so many different lives! His memory will live on in our hearts forever! May God Bless each of you and may you feel his loving arms around you and find strength in your time of grief. My thoughts and prayers are with each of you.
Ms. M
ALMA RENNER
August 8, 2007
GOD BE WITH YOU
LOVE ALWAYS
ALMA ANN RENNER
CAMELLIA CITY WARD
Ashlee Jones
August 8, 2007
I was one of many who was bessed in knowing and loving sione.. he will always remain in my heart.. i miss u..
DARLENE CABITAC-GIBSON
August 8, 2007
I met Sione when he was a student-classmate of my daughter Andrea Cabitac @ jackman Middle School,they went on to valley Hi School together.Drea and I watched Sione play football @ home games,he took pictures with Drea @ their 8th grade graduation, Valley Homecomimg , and Graduation day. I will always remember Sione as a beautiful, kind & gentle youngman. May God be with him and his family,Always Darlene Cabitac -Gibson.
Savannah hawkins
August 8, 2007
I will always remember the way you made me feel COOL, You would see in me in halways at school and come up and hug me... And you were the cool kid.. Now you know how much that ever meant to me. You and your family are in my prayers.
Michele Ellis
August 8, 2007
John and Family,
My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family.
From the Ellis Family
Ride In Paradise Johnny...
Jewel Brown
August 8, 2007
i have known Johnny and the family since i moved to sacramento in the 5th grade. Johnny always looked out for me like i was his little sister. i can't believe he's gone. Johnny was and is a truely inspirational person and will be sorely missed by many.
i send my thoughts,prayers, and condolences to ALL of his family.
ofa atu johnny... i miss you!!
Sione Kifi Folau Jr: 12/26/85 to 8/4/07
Eugene Baker
August 8, 2007
For twenty-one years I had the honor and pride of watching Johnny grow into a great young man. If I could custom-order a son from Heaven with all the options and accessories possible - He would look like Sione Folau Jr.. Not even death can silence the heart of one as valiant as Johnny. May our Heavenly Father bless, heal and shelter the Folau family - And may Johnny's life inspire others to be the best they can.
Sandra Ramirez
August 8, 2007
Barb and family,
I am so sorry for your loss. You should be very proud of how well your son lived his life and what great parents you are. If you need anything you let me know.
Harryette Philpott
August 8, 2007
John - I was so saddened to hear of this terrible tragedy for you and your family. My thoughts and prayers are with you. May God help you to be strong.
Tiffany Philpott
August 8, 2007
John~
I am so sorry for your loss and hardships happening right now. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Arnold Aguilar
August 8, 2007
Sione,
It has truly been an honor to have known you since kindergarten (you were in first grade with my older brother, Antonio) and it has been an honor to have played football on the same team as you. As the leader of our football team, I always looked up to you as you always played with intensity, strength, mind, and heart. As an older brother, I have always admired how much love and pride you took in your family and how much respect you have always shown to my family whenever we were in the same presence. When I learned of your passing, it hit me very hard because you were like family to me. I am truly sad to know that you are gone, but at the same time, I am glad to know that you are in a better place now.
To the Folau family,
On behalf of my family, we are greatly sorry for your loss. Our prayers and thoughts go out to you all. We all have been blessed to have known Sione, a fine, young man, whose big heart has touched the hearts of many.
Carol & Glenn Wellman
August 8, 2007
John, Barbara and family,
Our thoughts, prayers and love are with all of you. I am really sorry that we can't be there but please remember that we are thinking about you.
Peter Burke
August 8, 2007
Sione was my student in fifth grade at Union House Elementary. I was also his PE teacher in 1st and 2nd grade. I remember his ear to ear grin and his happy go lucky way. I am so saddened by this untimely tragedy. My sincere condolences to Mom, Dad, Joseph, Norman, William, George, and baby sister Salote. Be strong.
Darren Mitchell
August 8, 2007
Sione,
I have always admired you and your approach to life. I am so honored to have had the chance to coach you and build a relationship with you. I will carry these memories with me always. To your family: Thank you for allowing Sione to be a part of my life and for bringing such a unique person into our community. He will be deeply missed by many people including myself and former coaches.
We loved Sione and will miss him terribly. I will never ever forget you.
Coach Mitchell
joseph adversalo
August 7, 2007
On behalf of the Adversalo Family's, Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. God Speed.
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