LDS Missionary from Australia Dies in Samoa

Contributed By Ryan Morgenegg, Church News staff writer

  • 21 November 2017

Elder Aaron Ahkau Matapa Patiole.  Photo from Facebook.

A 21-year-old Mormon missionary, Elder Aaron Ahkau Matapa Patiole, died while serving a mission in Samoa.

“With great sadness we announce the death of one of our full-time missionaries,” said Eric Hawkins, a spokesman for the Church, in a statement released November 19.

“Elder Aaron Ahkau Matapa Patiole, age 21, was killed when he was struck by a vehicle in Upolu, Samoa, as he and his companion were walking together,” said Hawkins.

Elder Patiole is from the Macarthur Australia Stake. He had been in the Samoa Apia Mission since December 2016.

“We are grieved by this loss and extend our prayers and love to his family and loved ones,” said Hawkins. “We pray they will be blessed with peace as they mourn the loss of this valiant young man.”

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