Ioane Puapuaga

Ioane Tano PuaPuaga of Liberty, NY, a retired security receiver for Shoprite, Monticello, NY and a long time area resident died Sunday, August 11, 2019 at his home.  He was 67.

The son of the late PuaPuaga Tulau and Rosalina Opetaia, he was born October 6, 1951 in Fagatoga, American Samoa.

Tano enjoyed traveling and put his love of driving and his “NYC Cab driver skills to use.”  Making many dreams, come true.  He was very caring.  Tano had the gift of imparting wisdom.  He had the character trait of being sage, reminding his family to always think before you act or make a decision.  Tano enjoyed fishing and woodworking, you can view his sign at the Community Garden in the Village of Liberty.  Due to his catering experience he also enjoyed cooking for his family, especially at holiday time.  He was an avid reader and enjoyed gaining knowledge and discussing the book(s) he was reading.

Survivors include his wife, Susan L. Champlin PuaPuaga, at home; his son, Roan Sokol (Adrienne); his grandchildren, Amber and Ranson; his siblings, Fa’api’o Maae, Sogã Taulaga (Lauren), Emo Jackson (Charles), Mele Tufono (Carl), Naomi Fa’ataui, Lamu McMoore (Katy), Enele McMoore (Iole), Rosalina Tivao, Fuji Tagafau, Sunako Togafau, and sister-in-law, Rita Rocket Burger; his mother-in-law, Margaret Champlin; sister-in-law, Nancy Morgenstern (Alan); and brother-in-law, Edward R. Champlin.  He is also survived by many niece and nephews, great nieces and nephews, and great-great nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by two siblings, Fuata’i PuaPuaga and Sunako PuaPuaga.

Visitation will be Monday, August 19, 2019 from 3 to 6 PM in the Harris Funeral Home, West St. at Buckley, Liberty, NY.

A celebration of life service will be Monday, August 19, 2019 at 6 PM in the funeral home.  The Rev. David Coon will officiate.

Memorial contributions in his name may be made to the Sullivan County Veteran’s Coalition, PO Box 1527, Monticello, NY 12701 and Catholic Charities, 369 Broadway, Monticello, NY 12701.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Harris Funeral Home, West St. at Buckley, Liberty, NY. www.Harris-FH.com  845-292-0001 or 845-439-5200.