Tafuna Scholarship Fund Drive Under Way

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The family of Keoni “Deedee” Tafuna, the former Kahuku football player who committed suicide last year, is raising money to establish a scholarship for Kahuku High seniors in memory of the outgoing and popular student.

“Part of the motivation is to honor his memory,” said his aunt Uila Fotu Vendiola, “but for me and my husband (Kawika) specifically this is part of our healing process.”

Funds also will support youth counseling and the school’s Advancement Via Individual Determination program. Tafuna had been a student of the AVID college preparatory program since seventh grade.

Tafuna was found dead Nov. 22 at Vendiola’s home. Medical examiners determined the cause of death as a suicidal hanging. No note was found, leaving loved ones confused about what drove the talented student and athlete to take his own life. Tafuna, 17, had a 3.8 gpa and was skilled enough to catch the attention of college football coaches. A week before he died, the undefeated Red Raiders were disqualified from the state championship game because of a clerical error. Tafuna’s leadership was credited in helping the team handle the disappointment in a mature manner.

The Fund42 campaign, named after Tafuna’s team number, has set a goal to raise $42,000 in 42 days. Vendiola believes it’s possible to achieve: “There was such love and support from the community ... and they were impacted by what happened and we are just hoping that if we can get the word out that people will want to contribute.”

Mail donations to Hoomana Foundation, P.O. Box 283 Kahuku, HI; online at hoomanafoundation.org or at any First Hawaiian Bank.