Vanessa Pulepuleitaua Matautia's Obituary
Vanessa Pulepuleitaua Matautia, born on April 7, 1979, in the sunny city of San Diego, California, graced the world with her vivacious spirit for 46 beautiful years before she passed away on April 16, 2025, in Tacoma, Washington.
Vanessa was a beacon of warmth and positivity, a free spirit with a down-to-earth charm that drew people in and made them feel at home. She had an incredible knack for turning strangers into friends with her genuine sociability and infectious laughter. Her journey took her from Bellarmine Preparatory School, where she graduated with the class of 1997, to the bustling halls of the University of Washington Seattle. There, she pursued a degree in Political Science, driven by a keen interest in understanding the world and making it a better place.
Though Vanessa was not religious, she held a deep belief in the values of Christianity, which she expressed through her kindness and compassion toward everyone she met. Her life was a testament to living with intention and embracing beauty in every moment.
Vanessa is lovingly remembered by her mother, Pulepuleitaua M. Matautia; brother Tom Matautia, sister Vivian (Judy) Matautia, and brothers Alvin (Cesi) Matautia and Christopher (Shantel) Matautia; nephews Isaiah Jr. and Cedric; nieces Leanna and Abigail; grandnephews Kamako, Gabriel, and Giovanni; and grandniece Mayzle . They cherish the memories of Vanessa's boundless energy and the joy she brought into their lives.
A celebration of Vanessa's life will be held on Saturday, May 31, 2025, at the Roman Catholic Church of Pope St. John XXIII Parish. Friends and family are invited to gather and remember the vibrant spirit of a remarkable woman who touched so many lives.
In remembering Vanessa, we celebrate a life lived with purpose and love. Her legacy is one of warmth, friendship, and an enduring free spirit that will continue to inspire those who knew her. Services are pending with Mountain View Funeral Home.
What’s your fondest memory of Vanessa?
What’s a lesson you learned from Vanessa?
Share a story where Vanessa's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Vanessa you’ll never forget.
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