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63, of Honolulu, Hawai'i, passed away on August 31, 2021, at Straub Medical Center. He was born on February 13, 1958, in American Samoa to Sio and Talo (Tagoai) Saipaia. A 1976 graduate of Punahou School, Ia was a basketball standout who later played at San Diego State University, Santa Rosa Junior College (Calif.), and the University of Hawai'i at Hilo. In addition to being inducted into the Punahou Hall of Fame in 2008, he also joined the UH Hilo Hall of Fame in 2002. Ia worked as a Senior Superintendent at Matson, Inc. since 1988. He previously worked for Mid Pacific Airlines in Customer Service. Through both positions, he made many life-long friends and enjoyed golfing, traveling, and sports.
Ia is survived by wife, Jean, son Davis, and daughter, Angie. He is also survived by son, Blane Saipaia, sisters Mele Wilson, Anna Gill, Faasalafa Forney, Faia Aiga, Paepae Lualemana, Toaiva Rowe, and Maia Tuisamata; brothers, Sio Saipaia Jr. and Soli Namu, numerous nieces, nephews, and grandchildren. He was predeceased by parents, Sio, Talo and sisters, Fia Tupua and Kalala Saipaia.
Ia was well-known for his athletic prowess, humble demeanor, and gentle spirit. He loved his family, and especially cherished his relationship with his siblings. He will always be remembered as a loyal friend and a loving dad.
Memorial Services will be held on Saturday, July 2, 2022, at Thurston Memorial Chapel at Punahou School. Visitation will be at 2 pm with service to begin at 3 pm. The family requests no flowers.
