Obituary of Francis Salanoa

prior to Mass beginning at 9:30 AM Francis “Moe” Salanoa Francis “Moe” Salanoa was born February 1, 1973 in American Samoa. On the morning of May 27, 2009, Francis lost his year-long battle with Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML), but won the war in reuniting with his beloved mother and in going home to our Lord, Jesus Christ. Francis graduated from Lakes HS, class of 1991. He served in the United States Marine Corp from 1991 through 2000. His tours included Somalia Operation Deliverance, part of the American-initiated Operation Restore Hope for which he received numerous decorations for valor. Francis greatly enjoyed working with the Juveniles at Maple Lane School. He only stopped working when diagnosed with AML on June 2, 2008 upon physician advisement. Francis loved spending time with his family, most especially his wife and children, but not excluding cheating at playing cards with his grandmother. Sometimes described as a “Renaissance Man”, he loved life and lived it with great enthusiasm, and charisma. He loved hunting, various sports (Go Cowboys!), and mountain climbing. He is forever survived by his Loving Wife, 5 children, 4 sisters, 3 brothers, grandmother, many nieces, nephews, cousins and countless friends. Family and friends will celebrate Francis’ young, yet amazing life on June 2, 2009 at St John Bosco Catholic Church -10508 112th St SW Lakewood, WA beginning with mass at 11 am followed by 1:30pm burial services at Mt. View Cemetery located at 4100 Steilacoom Blvd. SW Tacoma (Lakewood). If you would like to make a donation in Francis’ honor, please consider donating through ourfriendfrancis.com. All proceeds will go to patients/families struggling with leukemia and other types of cancers. You may leave memories by clicking on "View Guestbook" below.