Sa’u Smitty Lutu, the first Samoan to hold the position of Resident Director of the Federal Aviation Administration in American Samoa died yesterday at his home in Iliiili. He was 74.
Sa’u or Smitty as he was known to his large network of family , friends and associates only retired from the FAA last year after 45 years of service, 17 of which was as resident director.
Technical Operations Honolulu District Manager Douglas Klauch paid tribute to Sa’u’s long and distinguished service at the time of his retirement.
Play AudioSmitty
Sa’u won numerous awards though his career including employee of the Year in management, outstanding business administration, technical expertise, excellence in safety and several others.
Before joining the FAA, Sa’u worked at KVZK- TV in the early days of the government owned television station.
Sa’u was also a former chairman of the Board of Directors of the American Samoa Power Authority..
In the community he was known as an outgoing, sociable and well liked person who befriended people of all ages and walks of life. He was also known as a generous person.
Many church organizations and schools benefitted from Sa’u’s expertise for their sound systems and fixing technical equipment without cost.
Many families also share stories of how Sa’u helped them when they most needed it., even without their asking…he was just that sort of person.
Sa’u was a partner in Southseas Broadcasting Inc., owners of 93 KHJ, V103, The Beat and Island Television.
As Company President Larry Fuss tells it: “Smitty and I found one another in 1995 when a new FM channel became available in American Samoa. We decided to form South Seas Broadcasting Inc. to apply for the new station. It was finally approved and went on the air in 1999.
Fuss said, “Over the years, Smitty has been extremely helpful as we have grown from one station to three. Smitty was a devoted family man and an all-around great guy. He will be missed by all.”
Sa’u is survived by his wife, Afamasaga Itagamamao Perelini-Lutu, children and grnadchildren.
KHJ News extends our condolences to Mrs Lutu, children and family for the passing of a special man.
