George Hopoate Hansen

George Hopoate Hansen, aged 87, peacefully passed away on February 5th, 2025, at Providence Saint Joseph Orange Hospital, surrounded by his loving family. Born on December 17, 1937, in Teleki, Vava'u, Tonga, to Thomas Hansen and Mele Talaumote'emoa Luani, George was the fourth of eleven children. His 10 other siblings are Lawrence Edward Hansen, John Fatafehi Hansen, Robert Rudolph Hansen, Catherine Ofa Hansen Mann, Henrietta Hansen Faumui, Helaman Hansen, Seini Hansen Leauanae, Thomas Hansen, Kalesita Fifita Hansen William, and Emma Caroline Hansen Dominee.

A devoted family man, George cherished his time with his siblings, always ready with a joke and a smile to share. He is survived by his ten children, 65 grandchildren, and 56 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Seini Uiniasi Uitalia Hansen, and his son, Robert Rudolph Hansen. His surviving children are Eddie Edwin Hansen, Lillian Vasitai Ward, Tongaleva Vea, Fiona Koloamatangi, Henrietta Tonata, Siaosi Hansen, Alonzo George Hansen, Jason King Hansen, Talaumote'emoa Hansen Fonua, and Gordon Bruce Hansen.

George spent many years as a proud resident of Rowland Heights before finding a new home in Santa Ana. Growing up in Tonga, He attended Liahona High School, excelling in both rugby and the school band. His professional career began with the Government of Tonga Construction Company (TCC), which led to his relocation to Suva, Fiji, where he worked in hotel construction. Later, George served as a building maintenance supervisor for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Vava'u, Tonga, mentoring and training young labor missionaries who were called to assist him in his work. A career highlight was his work in laying the foundation and contributing to the construction of Saineha High School in Vava'u.

In addition to his professional accomplishments, George was a committed servant of his faith. He served in numerous leadership roles within the church, including Branch President in Tefisi, District President over all of Vava'u, and the first Bishop of the Neiafu Vava'u Ward. As a dedicated temple worker at the Los Angeles Temple, George found great joy in participating in the gathering of Israel.

One of his proudest achievements was bringing his family from Tonga to the United States in 1984, fulfilling a dream for a brighter future and a life full of blessings for many. His family was his life. He compared them to a field of flowers that have bloomed beautifully and will continue to do so.

One of George's final wishes is to express his deepest gratitude to his granddaughter, Funaki Uiniasi Hansen, for her unwavering love and dedication to his well-being and comfort during his final years.

Throughout his life, George faced many trials but remained steadfast in his faith. He consistently relied on the gospel, holding firmly to the iron rod and walking the path of righteousness. His unwavering devotion to family, faith, and service has left a lasting mark on all who knew him.

George will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who were touched by his kindness and strength. May he rest in peace, and we look forward to the day we will be reunited with him again.