Jim Auvaemama Taigaafi CSM's Obituary
Jim Auvaemama Taigaafi CSM
02/14/1929 to 06/09/2015
My beloved husband left this earth at the age of 86 years old. Born as an only child in Tutuila, American Samoa, he never experienced the joy of being raised by his parents. His mother died during childbirth and his father while Jim was only a toddler leaving him to the care of his aunts, uncles and cousins. Despite these adversities he grew to become a great and marvelous man.
He enlisted in the US Army at the age of 20 and over the following 3o years Jim proudly served our country in the Infantry Battalion retiring at the highest rank as an enlisted soldier, Command Sergeant Major.
Amongst his numerous awards and medals one of his most honorable is the Purple Heart Award earned in the Korean War on March 22nd, 1953. His multiple Meritorious Medals recognized Jim for exhibiting dynamic leadership and astute judgment. He was a truly dedicated soldier who accredited his life to the military. He unselfishly gave of his time to provide firm guidance, direction and development of junior leaders and in the achievement of mission requirements. Jim's superior accomplishments reflect great regard upon him and the US Army.
At the age of 51, my husband worked for the US Postal Service as a letter carrier for 19 years finally retiring at 70 years old.
Jim is survived by his children Michael, James and Michelle and his step-children Faimata, Logoglogo, Tilomai and Miliama along with many grandchildren and great grandchildren and me, his wife of 23 years, Deborah. Preceded by daughter Denise.
My husband is an accomplished, remarkable, inspirational and honorable man who has touched many lives.
Jim, I will always cherish your beautiful smile and the unconditional love we have for each other. 1 will love you for all time and eternity, my dearest sweetheart, until we meet again.
Viewing will be on Saturday June 20, 2015 from 9 a.m. -10 a.m., Services from 10:00 - 11:0o a.m. at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints 5220104th St. SW, Lakewood, Wa 98499. Burial will follow immediately at Mountain View Cemetary 4100 Steilacoom Blvd.SW Lakewood WA. 98499. With full Military Honors.
Just Do A Little at a Time
"Just do a little at a time",
my husband would say.
I can hear his long- gone voice,
as I go through my tasks each day.
They sometimes seem overwhelming,
but then 1 hear that refrain
"Just do a little at a time
and you won't even have to strain."
I remember our driveway,
an unending circle of grey,
Needed sealing with that gooey stuff,
He did a little each day,
His body was getting frailer,
but he would not pick up the phone
To call for help to do it.
He just did it on his own.
With dismay I'd shake my head,
not wanting him to work so much,
But now I find I listen to him,
and so we're still in touch.
He was right, you know.
It even works for me.
I just do a little at a time and
soon the end I see.
What’s your fondest memory of Jim?
What’s a lesson you learned from Jim?
Share a story where Jim's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Jim you’ll never forget.
How did Jim make you smile?
