Solomona Fano

Solomona Salilo Fano, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and esteemed veteran, passed away peacefully on March 4, 2025, in Waco, Texas, at the age of 73. He was born on March 26, 1951, in Faga'alu, American Samoa to Salilo Sailiata Fano and Rufo Tai Pedro Fano.  Solomona’s life was marked by his unwavering commitment to family, service, and community.

A proud graduate of Samoana High School in American Samoa, Solomona dedicated 24 years of his life to serving in the United States Army, ultimately achieving the rank of Master Sergeant. His service to his country was a source of great pride and a testament to his character. Following his military career, he transitioned into civilian life, serving as a Ramp Agent for Delta Airlines before continuing his journey as a Government Contractor. He lovingly retired for a second time in 2017, cherishing the time he could devote to his family.

Solomona was known for his kind and soft-spoken demeanor. He was deeply loved by his family, and he devoted himself to providing for them with humility and patience. He relished spending time with his grandchildren, fostering bonds through shared memories and activities. He particularly enjoyed leisurely walks with his wife, Elena, around Wal-Mart and the PX. A natural athlete, Solomona also loved to play racquetball and found joy in sitting at his kitchen table, gazing out at the American flag waving proudly in his front yard.

His journey in the church was equally significant; he served a two-year mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in the Samoa Apia mission from 1974 to 1976, an experience that shaped his faith and commitment to serving others.

Solomona is survived by his beloved wife, Elena Fano; daughters Peka (Matt) Holmes, Rufo (Jacob) Chidester, Fiasili Laloni, and Nani (Amber) Ames; and cherished grandchildren, including Elena-Cherie Holmes, Molly-Louise Holmes, Kolianetuma Chidester, Helamana Chidester, Alema Chidester, Amoleka Chidester, Solomon Laloni, Metui Laloni, Lagi Pepe Laloni, Mitchell Ames, Niko Ames, and Evyn Ames. He is also survived by a close-knit group of brothers: Sailiata Fano, Ben Fano, Salilo Tai Fano, Alapati Fano, Reverend Johnny Fano, Fa'agai (Fusitele) Fano, and Kesimale Fano; as well as sisters Maupu Laie, Fa'aui Lefotu, Pese Aumau, and Anuilagi Toilolo.

He is preceded in death by his loving parents, two grandchildren, Sepulona Chidester and Liahona Chidester, a son-in-law, Christopher Laloni, and brothers Daniel Fano, Salilo Jr. Fano, Johnny Fano, and sister Leiema Taylor.

The community will gather to honor Solomona's exceptional life with a funeral service on March 18, 2025, starting at 12:30 PM at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, located at 1502 Virginia Ave, Copperas Cove, Texas. Following the service, a graveside service will take place at 3:00 PM at 11463 TX-195, Killeen, Texas.

Solomona Salilo Fano leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and dedication to his family and country. His memory will forever resonate in the hearts of those who loved and admired him.