Marist Oldest Member Sapa’u Lolesio Vitale Dies at 99, Leaving a Legacy of Service

By Jeannie Penehuro/

Apia, SAMOA – 25 September 2026 – Marist Old Boys gathered in force to farewell its oldest member, sports and fitness enthusiast – former Member of Parliament, Sapa’u Lilomaiava Lolesio Vitale at his home at Levi, Sale’imoa, Wednesday this week.

He dedicated 34 years of his working life to serving the Government and people of Samoa as a police officer entering the service in 1953 and retired in 1987.

In 1988, Sapa’u entered politics and was elected to the Legislative Assembly of Samoa representing the constituency of Sagaga-le-Falefa until 2001.

In his younger years, he was a well-known and respected rugby player, sports and fitness enthusiast who was also a founding member of the Golden Oldies Rugby Team.

In 2023, Sapa’u was awarded the prestigious Officer of the Order of Samoa during Samoa’s 60th Independence celebrations and honours awards.

The award recognised his lifelong service to the Government and the people of Samoa.

Sapa’u Lilomaiava Vitale at 97 years old with former Head of State, Tui Atua Tupua Tamasese Efi and former Police Commissioner Tuatagaloa Asi Blakelock at MBOPA’s 100th anniversary parade in May 2024.

Sapa’u’s wish for the next generation of Marists
Sapa’u, the oldest surviving member of the Marist Brothers Old Pupils Association (MBOPA) before his passing, was a lifelong supporter of the Marist legacy in Samoa.

His formative educational years were spent at Marist Brothers School in Mulivai, Apia.

At MBOPA’s 100th anniversary celebrations in 2024, Sapa’u shared a simple message for the younger generation of Marist Old Boys – to uphold the values, traditions and spirit of service that have guided the Association for generations.

Taking off his sunglasses and smiling, he reminded members that MBOPA should be more than a place to gather, drink and socialise.

“E le o se asosi e omai na o le taumafa ava, talitalie ia ma faitatala, ae tele le fesoasoani a le asosi mo matou, aemaise matou mai kuapeki,” he said.

Sapa’u also remembered the challenges faced by rural students at the time, travelling to school to Apia, including long walks, limited transport and the fear of arriving late and being questioned in English by the Marist Brothers.

In 2018, he was among 15 former Marist students presented with Excellence Service Awards in recognition of their service, during the celebration of 130 years of the Marist Brothers’ contribution to education in Samoa.

Born 8 June 1927, Sapa’u died peacefully at home at 99 years old, leaving behind a legacy of service, unity and support for future generations.