Tini Apelu Manuleleua

Tini Apelu Manuleleua, Airforce Veteran and retiree died unexpectedly on June 7, 2024 at the age of 84 surrounded by family and friends during his surprise birthday party. He graced us one last time with his rendition of his karaoke favorite, “My Way” by Frank Sinatra.

Tini was born and raised in Pago Pago, American Samoa. He is survived by siblings Katherine Bitgood, Tolu Misa, Alavine Tuala, and Laila Manuleleua as well as his children, Eddie Achica, Lucy Achica-Woods, Mona Lozada, George Achica, Eugenia Delatorre, Virginia Manuleleua, Jerry Manuleleua, and Daniel Peters and their families made up of 10 grandchildren, 19 great grandchildren and 1 great great grandchild.

He was predeceased by his Mother, Lina Manuleleua, Father, Apelu Manuleleua, his loving wife Tauveve P. Manuleleua, siblings Montez Sooaemalelagi, Milo Uigaese, Ferrin Manuleleua, Alisa Manuleleua, Sale Manuleleua, Iosefa Fa’alogo, Pinati Fa’alogo, and grandson Jason Achica.

Both Tini and his wife, Tauveve, were sealed forever at the Oakland Temple of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. After his wife’s passing, he continued to be a devoted member of the church. He loved sharing his faith with other members of his ward not only by attending weekly church services, but also attending every church activity that included singing and dancing.

Over the years he held many different positions in the Church, but particularly loved the opportunities he was given to share his knowledge, faith, and love for the gospel. He also loved hosting the missionaries in his home, cooking big feasts, and enjoying the time spent together sharing stories.

Tini especially loved his Bay Area sports teams, San Francisco Giants, Warriors, and number one in his heart, Bang Bang Niner gang. He also, enjoyed watching golf and tennis. In his early days he loved bowling with family and friends, fishing, singing live, karaoke, playing poker strategizing in taking everyone's money and not to forget his love for dancing the night away.

Tini joined the Air Force and proudly served his country from 1956 to 1960. He held an E-4 High Security Clearance to code and decode messages as a Teletype Operator, typing 133 WPM. Utilizing his lightning fast typing skills, he went on to work at RCA, Watkins and Johnson, and Santa Clara County as a Counselor specifically working with the Polynesian community. After semi-retiring, Tini became a School Crossing Guard for the City of San Jose keeping the children at Bagby Elementary School safe every day. The children and parents loved him and often showered him with gifts and hand drawn pictures. One little kid even wanted to become a crossing guard just like Tini and loved walking his brother to school just to see him work. Eventually, Tini completely retired and enjoyed staying home with his little buddy, George, the family dog. George woke him every morning and got him to go outside for some fresh air, vitamin D, and exercise. They often cuddled together and Tini loved to sing to him and sneak him food when no one was looking.

Tini will be deeply missed by his family and friends and all who knew him, please join us as we celebrate his life.

Family Services and viewing will be held, Thursday July 4th at 4:00 pm Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, 875 Quince Avenue Santa Clara 95051

Followed by Friday July 5th at 10:00 am Church Service same location and burial to commence at Oak Hill Cemetery 300 Curtner Avenue San Jose CA

Reception to follow at Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, 875 Quince Avenue Santa Clara 95051

Flowers and condolences may be offered at Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, 875 Quince Avenue Santa Clara 95051