THE Fiji Rugby Union and Fiji National Rugby League have lost one of its favourite sons in former halfback Mesake Seavula who passed away at his village in Namatakula, Nadroga on Friday.
Seavula, who is believed to have died of a heart attack, arrived from Australia with his older brother and also a former dual international Noa Nadruku to spend the festive season in the village.
The former Nadroga halfback came to renovate his home in the village and was to be later joined by wife Makelesi and two children Anare and Qivi later this week.
Daughter Qivi Seavula could not control her emotions during an interview at the village yesterday.
She said it was hard to believe that her role model dad had left the family for ever and stated Christmas and New Year celebration would not be as enjoyable without her dad.
“The last time I spoke to my dad was on Thursday because we were coming for a surprise since this is the first time for my daughter to come to Fiji,” said Qivi.
“Dad came three weeks ago with uncle Noa (Nadruku) to renovate our family house and we were supposed to join him this week. I was in Australia when I heard the sad news about my dad. When my mum relayed the news I told her it was not true.”
The fallen rugby hero is one of the three brothers in the family to have represented the country. The other two brothers are Viliame Tani and Nadruku.
Qivi said rugby was like a religion in their home.
“I grow and breathe rugby and I was even forced to play rugby in the house but I am proud of what dad and my other two uncles have achieved in the sport.”
Seavula, 54 is survived by wife Makelesi, two children and two grandchildren.
