“A STALWART figure on the pitch, and courageous in all works.”
That was how the late Naitasiri Rugby Union prop forward Maseikula Gaunavou was described by former captain Akuila Tuinasau during a moving eulogy at the Tamavua Methodist Church in Suva yesterday.
“He was one of those that you could rely on to hold up his end of the task during any game against any opponent.”
Gaunavou was a member of the Naitasiri Rugby Union team that featured in the provincial cup in the late 1990s to early 2000s and featured in the Farebrother Challenge Trophy win of 1998 alongside former greats Apisai Rinamalo, Ratu Emori Tuisese, Asaeli Naiteqe, Ilaitia Tuisese Jr, Ratu Peni Naulivou, Alipate Naqaya, and Ratu Waisake Tuisese to name a few.
“He was one of a few words and did his talking through his ferocious work on the field which made an impact on players on both sides.
“An impact that has earned him a lot of respect and his deeds will be remembered for a long time to come.”
Gaunavou passed away at the age of 53 and was laid to rest at the burial ground at Tamavua Village.
He is survived by his wife, five children and three grandchildren.
