Donald Gene Pate Sooga's Obituary
It is with profound sorrow and abiding faith that we announce the passing of our beloved father, Donald Gene Pate Sooga, who was called home to be with the Lord and Savior on June 15, 2025, at the age of 83. Born on April 21, 1942, Donald lived a richly blessed life, a life anchored in unwavering devotion to God and an unconditional love for his family.
Donald was the cherished patriarch of our family, survived by his six children: Diane Taylor, Zephaniah J. Sooga, Abraham D. Sooga, Donald M. Sooga, Heaven M. Sooga, and Nazarene P. Sooga, his loving partner, Colleen Edwards, his brother, George Ako, and sixteen grandchildren.
Donald was God-fearing and had an unshakeable Christian faith. He was an evangelist of Christ and demonstrated his faith through service in his ministry, Molimau Mo Iesu (Witness for Jesus). He was well-known in the islands of Samoa, American Samoa, and Hawaii to carry a life-size cross for miles across cities and villages, an act that showcased his steadfast discipleship and exhibited the powerful symbol of love and forgiveness of Jesus Christ.
A man of deep conviction, our father made faith the foundation of our upbringing. His steadfast commitment to placing God first became the cornerstone upon which our family was built. His days were woven with prayer, generosity, and gratitude—his life a living testament to Psalm 127:3-4: “Children are a heritage from the Lord… Blessed is the man whose quiver is full of them.”
Donald possessed a vivacious spirit—a man unabashedly himself, whose booming laughter and playful humor filled every room. Shamelessly candid and gloriously unfiltered, he lived life with a boldness that inspired us to embrace authenticity without fear. To us, he was more than just a father; he was our unwavering protector, tireless provider, and enduring source of joy.
He worked diligently to secure not just our needs, but our dreams, always striving to ensure that each of his children could flourish. His legacy is not only written in the milestones we achieve, but etched deeply within our hearts.
Dad, your departure has left an irreplaceable void. Yet in our grief, we find solace knowing you now dwell in the eternal presence of our Savior. We promise to honor your memory by walking steadfastly in faith, loving unconditionally, and living courageously, just as you taught us.
Matou te alolofa tele ia te oe, lo matou Tamā pele. E ui ua e tu’ua i matou i lenei lalolagi, o le a fa’atumauina pea lou manatuaga i o matou loto i aso uma o lo matou soifuaga. Fa’afetai tele mo lou alofa mutimutivale ma le ta’ita’iga lelei na e foa’iina mai i o matou olaga.
We love you beyond measure, our precious father. Until we meet again in glory.
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