Tongan Nobleman Hon. Fakafanua Kinikinilau Lelea 'a Fafine was laid to rest today at the Vakataumai burial ground at Ma'ufanga.

His 'apo or night of mourning was held May 23 at his residence, Siumafua'uta, where ongoing prayer services were conducted by various church denominations until the early morning.

At 10 am his catafalque was carried by about 50 men to Vakataumai cemetery. The Hon. Fakafanua Kinikinilau Lelea 'a Fafine was born on 7 May 1934, and he succeeded his father Fakafanua Kisione Lelea 'a Fafine, the sixth holder of the noble title on 7 May 1955

In 1957 he married Kalolaine Taukapa Lata 'i Falefehi 'Ahome'e, a daughter of Noble 'Ahome'e of Ha'avakatolo.

The Hon. Fakafanua died in Hawai'i on May 13, aged 70. He is survived by his widow, ten of 11 children, and 37 grandchildren.

The Hon. Fakafanua served the Tonga Government for 35 years. Present at the burial ceremony was HM King Taufa'ahau Tupou IV, the Prime Minister Prince 'Ulukalala Lavaka Ata, members of the Tongan Royal Family, and Government Ministers.

Over 1,000 mourners joined the funeral procession on Vuna Road to pay their final respects.