Sione P. Kuliha’apai, aged 65, of Paso Robles, peacefully departed this earthly life at his home on June 29, 2024, following a courageous battle with cancer.
Obituary
Sione Pusiaki Kuliha’apai, born on March 9th, 1959, in the village of Tu’anuku Vava’u, Kingdom Island of Tonga, to Sione Potauaine Kuliha’apai and Mele Liliola Potauaine Kuliha’apai. Leaving the Kingdom Island of Tonga in his twenties, Sione immigrated to the United States and settled in California, where he embarked on a diverse career spanning multiple trades. From many avenues in construction and steel working to specializing in bricklaying and masonry, Sione’s exceptional work ethic defined his craftsmanship. His hands crafted enduring pieces across San Luis Obispo County, from fences to intricately designed flagstone fireplaces and walkways, leaving a lasting mark on the landscapes around us. With all these attributes he remained humble, selfless, and giving. He consistently offered exceptional value for high-quality work. While others in the same trades would charge arm and a leg, Sione remained humble and loyal to his pricing, often doing minor details for free.
Beyond his professional achievements, Sione was a devoted provider for his family, embodying strength, dedication, love, and kindness. Sione’s youngest daughter Veisinia Isalei Kuliha'apai was born in October of 2004. Sione’s profound love for Veisinia was evident in every aspect of his life, their inseparable connection is a testament to his deep love and dedication to her. Their bond remaining unbreakable even beyond his physical presence.
Despite facing cancer, Sione remained a resilient fighter, refusing to let illness diminish his passion for life. He embarked on meaningful journeys throughout his final years, creating cherished memories with his family and friends. His grandchildren were particularly dear to him, and he imparted lasting impressions that will resonate throughout their lives.
Sione’s physical presence will be missed, his legacy transcends beyond illness and mortality. His love, laughter, and joy for life continue to inspire those who were privileged to know him, ensuring that his spirit remains vibrant in the hearts of his family and community. His enduring spirit serves as a beacon of inspiration and a testament to the profound impact one individual can have on the lives of others.
“Death, though bitter to observe, is not the end, but is, rather, only another graduation from which we go on to a better life.”
Gordon B. Hinckley
He is preceded in death by his parents Mele Liliola Potauaine Kuliha’apai and Sione Potauaine Kuliha’apai, siblings: Palutea Tuifua, Asipeli Kuliha’apai, Ainise Sitake, Seini Mele Tauveli, Tupounuia Kuliha’apai, Lakai Kuliha’apai, Sione Maluifonua Kuliha’apai.
He is survived by his wife Nasha, his Pacheco family of San Luis Obispo County, 3 sons and 4 daughters with the youngest being his baby Veisinia Isalei Kuliha’apai. Siblings; Kisaea Mohuvai One one, Pasiaka Potauaine, Seini Tokilupe Fietonu, Moahengi Kuliha’apai, Muivai Kuliha’apai.
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