Senate honors former lawmaker, conveying sympathy to Atuatasi family

Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — The Senate on Wednesday approved a concurrent resolution conveying its deepest condolences and sympathies to the children and the entire Atuatasi family on the recent passing of former Senator, High Talking Chief Atuatasi Talosaga.

Senator Tuaolo Manaia Fruean confirmed the resolution was delivered during the funeral service.

The Legislature paid tribute to Atuatasi’s extensive and dedicated years of service to his village and people of American Samoa. “Especially the Itu’au county mourns the loss of great leader and pillar of the community and church.”

Born on December 19, 1932, he was the son of Atuatasi Tanu Fagale’a of Fagasa and Fa’aitu Sa Taupa’u Sala Atuatasi of Pago Pago.

After military service and civil service positions in Hawaii, he relocated home to American Samoa in 1972 and worked for ASG until returning to Hawaii to further his education in 1975. He studied business management at the Leeward Community College. Upon receiving his degree, he returned home to American Samoa in 1981.

The High Talking Chief title “Atuatasi” from his family in Fagasa- Ituau Malosi was bestowed on him in 1982.

He was selected by the village council as Senator for District 7, Ituau in 1995 where he served for two consecutive terms during the 24th and 25th Legislature from 1995 to 1998.

The Resolution says Atuatsi was a member of the Congregation Christian Church of American Samoa where he received his Deaconship in 1982, and ministered and dedicated his life to the church.

He passed away peacefully at his residence in Fagasa, surrounded by his family and loved ones on Sunday, April 10, 2022. He is survived by his 6 children, 24 grandchildren and 34 great-grandchildren.