If you were ever in need of a pick me up to brighten your day, I can guarantee you my uncle could have turned your mood around in 2.5 seconds. He had jokes for days- having you smiling and laughing nonstop. Not only could he lift your spirits in a matter of seconds, he also had a way of making you feel loved.
For as long as I can remember, I have never heard my uncle utter a negative word towards anyone. That was the kind of person he was. He made you feel like you belonged and always offered words of encouragement. Everyone he crossed paths with has been touched in some way- there's no doubt about it. Whether it was his family, youth & young adults of the church, his scouts or co-workers...he made an impact on all.
I still can't wrap my head around the fact that he's at rest. I feel like he's still supposed to be here, he's not supposed to be gone. He may just be my uncle, but he's the only one I've met from the 5 on my dad's side. He reminded me so much of my own dad from his sense of humor, his looks, the way he raised his kids and much more. Back in April I had a long talk with my uncle and when we said goodbye that night he said, "You've grown into a young woman & your dad would be proud. Be happy." He would tell me that every time I saw him and any chance he got to tell me on facebook too. Now when I think of him I always think to 'be happy.' I'll try my best just for you.
For as long as I can remember, I have never heard my uncle utter a negative word towards anyone. That was the kind of person he was. He made you feel like you belonged and always offered words of encouragement. Everyone he crossed paths with has been touched in some way- there's no doubt about it. Whether it was his family, youth & young adults of the church, his scouts or co-workers...he made an impact on all.
I still can't wrap my head around the fact that he's at rest. I feel like he's still supposed to be here, he's not supposed to be gone. He may just be my uncle, but he's the only one I've met from the 5 on my dad's side. He reminded me so much of my own dad from his sense of humor, his looks, the way he raised his kids and much more. Back in April I had a long talk with my uncle and when we said goodbye that night he said, "You've grown into a young woman & your dad would be proud. Be happy." He would tell me that every time I saw him and any chance he got to tell me on facebook too. Now when I think of him I always think to 'be happy.' I'll try my best just for you.
"You know the main words I remember about him is that he said "no ones PERFECT" You know me goin thru what I go thru & comin to church hearing that one phrase super uplifting" -TJ
"Be selfish about your happiness." // "Be true in the dark and be humble in the light."
Favorite quotes from this great man. I'll miss your sunday school lessons. You're an inspiration to all of us. -Nahdia
"He was a great man and very much loved by everyone...I worked with him for 2 years and since the day I first stepped in this office, I could see the great big heart that he had" -Daniela
"One of my favorite traits that Bro. Talataina shared with me was to be patient and to love others unconditionally. When there was a father & son camp out he'd volunteer to be my father for the camp outs and he taught all of us with kindness and would treat us as his own" -Steve
"To the man I served with on the Youth Presidency, who told me it was against the rules to guard him on the bball court, and most memorable...(in the car) running a red light during a youth activity going 20mph over and looking over at me sayin "I own the police"...Nothing but laughs and good times with that guy" -Austin
I'm happy you're reunited with Grandma, Grandpa & some of your brothers. Say hi to my dad for me and enjoy cracking your jokes together <3
My favorite picture of them all.
{Brother Chris, Dad, Uncle Eneli, Cousins Eneri & Tinei}
