The Polynesian Cultural Center wishes to recognize the passing of one of their own, Pulefano Galea’i, founder of the World Fireknife Competition, on June 5, 2021.
Alfred Grace, President and CEO of the Polynesian Cultural Center stated “I have often shared with our Ohana that “we drink from wells we have not dug”. Pulefano Galea‘i is an excellent example of a man who “dug deep and tirelessly” to provide for future generations. He worked for the Center for 24 years, but even before, and long after his retirement, his influence and humble service was felt. We will always remember him as a man of great faith who shared his love and talents not only locally, but throughout the world. His generous spirit and joy of life will continue to influence others for years to come. Tofa my feleni.”
Lots of Laughter, and a few tears too
Delsa Moe, Vice President of Cultural Presentation, expressed her admiration. “Pule did anything asked of him and more. No job was beneath him if it meant helping the Center. Working with Pule you could always count on lots of laughter, and a few tears too. He was extremely talented, very creative and also very knowledgeable of Polynesian culture, language and especially music.
“He loved entertaining and teaching,” she continued. “One thing he was passionate about was to ensure that fireknife dancers knew the origin and history of the siva ailao afi in order to prevent it from drifting into just a fire baton routine. He would often tell the competitors “You are not a true knife dancer if you don’t know the history and traditional basic moves of the ailao afi.
“Although he’ll long be credited as the founder of the World Fireknife Championships, he was much more than that. He was a friend to everyone, with a heart bigger than his body. He would over commit himself because he wanted to help anyone who asked for his help, much to the chagrin of his co-workers and family. He loved his family, his community, his ward and boy did he love his food. He knew every place in Honolulu that had good food. If there’s anything I’ve learned from my buddy Pule over the years, it’s tenacity. Nothing was too difficult for him. Even when his leg was amputated, it didn’t slow him down one bit. It only motivated him to face his physical challenges head on and that he did, because he was a warrior and warriors never give up. I will certainly miss him.”
He never ceased to amaze me
“Pule and I came back to work at the Polynesian Cultural Center at about the same time,” shared long-time friend and colleague Mikaele Foley. “I enjoyed working with him and am so grateful for our friendship, which goes back over 50 years. He never ceased to amaze me with his talent. He could conduct a meeting or event at a moment’s notice. His ability to ad lib, which came from his many years of performing, was incredible.”
He lifted others
“He was a people’s person” Steve Laulu, Island Manager at the Center stated. “He reminded me of what Maya Angelo, a poet, author and civil activist said, “People don’t remember what you did. People don’t remember what you said. But they remember how you made them feel” That is who Pulefano was. He always made others feel good about themselves in his actions, talents and deeds. He lifted others and helped them to be better.”
Teacher, leader and friend
Raymond Mokiao, Planning and Projects Administrator and Master Carver, remembers him as “an Innovator who saw opportunities which brought fame and fortune to the PCC. As a previous Islands Director, he initiated the ukulele lessons activity in the Hawaii Mission Settlement, was the brainchild for the World Fire Knife Competition, and inspired the Nifo Oti trophies among many initiatives which still in today. He was a teacher, leader and a friend. His Polynesian spirit and contributions to the PCC will be remembered for generations.”
Source: Polynesian Cultural Center
Photo: Mike Foley
