Norman Soakai

On March 30, 2023, our beloved Norman Soakai returned to his Heavenly Father after 75 years—with loving children and grandchildren by his side.

Norman Mateli Soakai was born April 25, 1947, In Munda, Solomon Islands, to Etuini Paipa Tongi’A Tungi Soakai and Ellen Wheatley Soakai. His many sibling and friends in the Solomon Islands and in Tonga, where he later lived, enjoyed his friendly personality and loving heart. Throughout his life he loved his family and friends—they were his greatest joy.

At age 18, Norman graduated from Liahona High School and joined The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He then served a Church mission in Tonga and continued serving the Church faithfully throughout his life. After attending BYU-Hawaii, he later graduated from BYU-Provo with a bachelor’s degree in criminology. Norman was married and sealed to his eternal companion, Hinemoa Filimoehala, in the Salt Lake Temple on August 15, 1974. He later became the proud father to Etuini (Fotofili), Virginia, Elizabeth (Lyza), and Hinemoa Maxine. Being a father and provider was one of his greatest accomplishments.

Norman loved and was gifted in sports. He played rugby growing up in Tonga, and people would travel from far villages to watch him play. Norman was a small but formidable rugby player, with no fear and unstoppable speed. He played rugby for BYU-Hawaii and BYU-Provo. Participating in sports allowed Norman to travel, enjoying many cultures, foods, and people who became lifelong friends, who admired his athletic talents, spirit of adventure, toughness, smile, and values. When he became a father, Norman played on local city rugby teams, while working as a detective and having a family.

The outdoors was a lifelong interest. He liked growing fruit trees and gardens and enjoying the fruit of his labors. Cooking was another activity of choice, particularly with plants from his garden—lots and lots of vegetables in every dish he made. He was always excited to prepare meals for visits from his adult children.

The family enjoyed hearing Norman sing and play the ukuelele and guitar, especially the songs he learned as a child. All enjoyed his stories, particularly children at bedtime. He had a gift for bringing past experiences to life. Norman loved to laugh and tease, especially his wife and grandkids. He brought laughter to his home.

Norman’s work ethic was noted by many over the years. In 1974 he was the first Tongan Police Officer in the United States. When he retired as an Ogden City police detective, he became a BYU police officer, for a total of 45 years serving in law enforcement. His service included boards as well as task forces and committees—the Utah Police Academy and Utah Governor’s Council, along with other state and national associations.
In his youth Norman was promised in a blessing that he would work with prophets and apostles in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. His BYU police work allowed him to work at university events, games, and devotionals where he would escort prophets, apostles and many other world renowned Church leaders.

Norman was a huge fan of anything BYU. In his work there he built friendships with athletic head coaches and enjoyed playing ping pong with the football players and other BYU athletes. He was always looking for a good time, and students and coaches loved his company.

As a founder of The National Tongan American Society, Norman would encourage other Pacific islanders to contribute to their communities. He provided scholarships to high school students who would graduate from college and also helped Polynesians coming to America in finding jobs to help provide for themselves and their families.

After retiring from BYU, Norman and his wife, Hinemoa, served a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Houston Texas. He used abilities and skills he had developed throughout his life to serve the people of Texas. With his warm friendship, unselfish service, and love for others. He was able to help many in Texas feel the love of our Savior Jesus Christ.

Norman Soakai’s life is an inspiration, proof that anyone can accomplish anything with faith and hard work. Coming from the small island of Tonga to America with no money and speaking little English, he accomplished so much. He helped many who were facing life challenges, which included moving to a different country. As a police officer, he had opportunities to help people see who they could become. At home and in the community he showed people, including those in trouble with the law, hope for a better life, in spite of the odds against them.

Norman knew his Savior and spent his life doing his best to follow Christ’s example. He will be missed, but his stalwart faith in God, his willingness to do hard work, and his love of life will live forever through his posterity.

Norman is survived by his wife, Hinemoa Filimoehala; daughters Virginia [Nia] Soakai; Elizabeth [Lyza] Wolfgramm (Molitoni), and Hinemoa [Maxine] Aston (Derek); and son Edwin [Fili] Soakai (Catherine)—as well as many adored grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

Norman was preceded in death by his parents and siblings Elizabeth Soper, Sara Soakai, Joyce Koloa, Seini Hopoi, Eddie Soakai (Living), Lolofi Langi, Hughie Soakai, Agnes Soakai, Kitchener Soakai, and Sionekevisi Soakai.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, April 8, 2023, with a viewing at 9:00 a.m.–10:45 a.m. and the funeral program at 11 a.m.–12 noon at 2445 North 650 East, Provo. The burial ceremony will be immediately after at the EastLawn Memorial Cemetery at 4800 North 650 East in Provo.