Ma’ata ‘Utulongoa’a Faletuipapai Makoni

1944 ~ 2019

It is with great sadness that the family of Ma'ata ‘Utulongoa'a Faletuipapai Makoni announce her passing at the Intermountain Medical Center in Murray on March 26, 2019. She was 74 years of age at the time of her death. She was the widow of Sione Hia Makoni. They shared 56 beautiful years of marriage together.

Ma'ata was born in Talau, Neiafu, Vava'u on December 8, 1944 to Isileli Faletuipapai and Atilua Lasini Vuna. She was the youngest of six children. As an adult she then migrated to the United States in 1986 with her kids following afterwards. She lived in Salt Lake City, Utah until her death.

Ma'ata was a member of the Laumali'e Maonioni church. She enjoyed many great church functions there and any function that involved her grandchildren were her favorite things to do. She will be remembered for her liveliness, strength and energy. We will also miss all her story telling and her willingness to be there for any of her kids or grand and great grandkids. Her presence will truly be missed everywhere.

Ma'ata is survived by her four children. Two daughters and two sons. The oldest Kato Kakala (Kasanova), Tevita Hia (Finita), Viliami (Siosiana Le'o), and Laota (Nehumi). Also her 21 grandchildren and 16 great grandchildren. She was preceded by the love of her life and both her parents.

The funeral service will be held on Friday, April 5, 2019 at Larkin Sunset Gardens, 10600 South 1950 East Dimple Dell Road Sandy, Utah at 7:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. Burial service will be held the following morning at the same address. She will then be laid to rest at Redwood Mortuary and Cemetery, 6500 S. Redwood Road Salt Lake City, Utah.