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Home arrow The News arrow Players and Family arrow Phillippe "Fiji" Leka (1980-2010) - Rest in Peace
Phillippe "Fiji" Leka (1980-2010) - Rest in Peace Print E-mail
Written by Vic Drover   
Monday, 19 April 2010

From the family and friends of Phillippe "Fiji" Leka

It is with great sadness that we confirm the untimely passing of Phillippe "Fiji" Leka on April 14 2010. Phillippe, aged 30, suffered a fatal neck injury during a rugby game on April 3 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, U.S.

Phillippe, from Nayawa Village, Nadroga Province, Fiji, is survived in the U.S. by his partner Liliana and their one year old daughter Xyella. Phillippe will be repatriated to Fiji, where he will be received by his cousin Ratu Naibuka Nacei Narukutabua and members of his Fijian family. He will be laid to rest with his mother in the village of Nayawa. 

Phillippe lived life to the fullest, particularly on the rugby field where he played with joy and passion. His memory will be honored by his friends and family across the world who will continue to play, and support, the game he loved.

Phillippe’s family would like to thank the many individuals and rugby clubs for the thoughts and prayers that have comforted them during this difficul time.

A memorial service will be held from 3:00 to 6:00 PM on Sunday, April 25, 2010 at the Milwaukee Friends Meeting House, 3224 N. Gordon Place, Milwaukee, WI 53212.

A charitable fund has been established to help support Phillippe’s family and his journey home to Fiji. To find out more, or make a donation, visit milwaukeeharlequins.com/Leka-Fund.html.

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Comments (11)add comment

Jim Harings said:

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Rest in peace my friend, you will be missed.
April 19, 2010

Julie Lawson said:

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Our heartfelt condolences to Phillippe's family and friends. May you find courage and strength through this difficult time.

The Lawson/Adyniec Family
April 20, 2010

Junior tuiqere said:

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Me nomudou na vakacequ mai veikoya sa cecere sara, Filipe moni lako ena vakacegu , ka salavata kei iko na loloma ni turaga.RIP
April 20, 2010

John Pinkstone said:

138
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On Apr 14 a shooting star passed over Milwaukee and the Midwest only hours after our own star Phillippe Leka had passed.

His journey began and will end in the South Pacific islands of Fiji where he will be reunited with the spirits of his ancestors.

Keep the spirit of Phillippe in your hearts and your thoughts and prayers with Lilly, Xyella, Buk and family, never forget the happy times we had together.

Vinaka Vakalevu
April 20, 2010

Dan Jones said:

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From one of the early quins - it is sad to see any member of "our family"
lost on the field of battle. Although I never had the opportunity to get to know Phillipe personally, I was able to witness his courageous play, and it was an honour to have him represent the green & gold. I think I can safely speak for all of the "old boys", when I say to his family and his mates - we are "with you" in this time of sadness. (DJ & other old boys)
April 20, 2010

Andrew Adyniec said:

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Fiji, there are no words I can use to explain how truly sorry I am that our paths have crossed this way. There will not be a day where I step onto a Rugby pitch and not think of you. On behalf of myself and the entire UW-Whitewater Rugby team we offer our condolences to you, your family, and the Harlequins.

R.I.P watch over us all
April 20, 2010

James Davis said:

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On behalf of Milwaukee RFC, we would like to extend our condolences to Fiji's family, friends, and the whole Harlequin community. He is a warrior that will be missed.
JD
Milwaukee RFC
April 21, 2010

Jacqui Smith said:

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So sorry to hear about Fiji. Our prayers are with his entire family and the team.

Don and Jacqui Smith
April 21, 2010

Joseph OBrien said:

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Thanks for the memories Fiji and my heart pours out for your young family...I will miss you friend and our times spent at the Irish pub.
April 25, 2010

Wayne Andrews said:

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News of Fiji's death has reached the expatriate rugby community out here in the Middle East. Condolences from all of us. RIP.
April 25, 2010

Tom Pappas QCIRFC 77-82 said:

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The Quad City Irish Rugby family is saddened by this news. Peace and prayers to his beloved family.
April 28, 2010

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