Sitiveni Naqica

Born in Vatukoula, Fiji to the late Mataiasi Nadau and Mereia Tubarua, he grew up in his village of Nawaisomo, Naitasiri and graduated from Nakorosule Primary School. He then boarded at Lelean Memorial School where he enjoyed his favorite sport and first love, Rugby. He then studied Divinity and Theology at Davuilevu where he was assigned to be the Vakatawa at Nasalia where he met his beloved wife of 33 years Colleen Naqica. They have lived the past 11 years in Denver, Colorado after 22 years of raising their children in the Fiji Islands.

Sitiveni is survived and will forever be remembered by his 5 loving sisters (Sereiama Vakaidia, Tavenisa Lewavavai, Mereula Vituwadamu, Miriama Likuseresere and Torika Dolo) along with 2 devoted brothers (Serevi Naitokatoka and Seveci Kelekelevula). His 8 beloved children (Litia, Vereniki, Jone, Brian, Mereula, Serevi, Kathryn and Maureen Tavenisa) and 8 treasured grandchildren (Brian, Emele, Sitiveni, Jone, Matai, Miriama, Johne and Sitiveni Oweni) are blessed to know him along with countless other friends.

Known as Papa John, Sitiveni was an active member of the Young Tigers Club and the USA rugby community. He enjoyed the comradery of the Polynesian community and never hesitated to hop on a flight and offer his help to friends and family that needed a "Qase" for social functions or rugby tournaments. Even though he was a proud Fijian, he was also proud to become an American citizen last August.

Sitiveni loved playing with his grandchildren, being with his family and having fun with friends. His infectious laugh never fails to bring a smile to friends and family touching the lives of many people with his generosity and sense of humor.

His final day was surrounded by family on his favorite and happiest day of the year. His strong convictions to the duty of family and the love of God made him memorable to all those whom know him.

A viewing will be held at 5pm Thursday at Newcomer Funeral Home, East Metro Chapel, 190 N. Potomac, Aurora, Colorado 80011. Friends and family are invited to attend the funeral service at 11am on Saturday, December 31st at Burns Memorial United Methodist Church, 1095 Newark Street, Aurora, Colorado 80010.