Obituary of Joel Ioelu Matautia

Joel Ioelu Matautia, 56, of Tacoma, passed away unexpectedly May 16, 2011. He was born on March 6, 1955 to Liuafi and Gase (Tupua) Matautia at Manu'a. Joel served in the US Army for 22 years and retired as a Staff Sergreant in 1996. He was very proud of his accomplishments and awards with the "All Army Softball Team", and membership in Washington State Racquetball Association. Joel is survived by his loving wife and racquetball partner, Cynthia, 4 sisters - Sarai Saulo, Fiva Taimanu, Seupepe Launiuvao, Rosalina Mulitalo; 3 brothers - Liuafi Matautia Jr., Sitoe Matautia, Ualesi Matautia; 3 sons - Tony Matautia, Jonathan Matautia, Benjamin Matautia; step-son - Andrew Rajnovic; numerous extended family and friends. He was preceded in death by father, Liuafi Matautia Sr., mother, Gase Matautia. Visitation will be held Thursday, May 26, 2011 with time and location pending. Funeral services will be held on Friday, May 27, 2011, 8:00 am at Calvary Community Church, 15116 Gary St., Sumner, WA 98390, with Semi Saulo, officiating. Interment with full military honors will follow the service and be held 2PM at Tahoma National Cemetery 18600 SE 240th St., Kent, WA 98042. Arrangements by Edwards Memorial Center, 253-566-1008.