Former New Zealand rugby league footballer and legend Olsen Filipaina dies.
The former five-eighth, who represented both New Zealand and Western Samoa, died on Thursday, February 10, 2022, at the age of 64.
Filipaina, whose real name is Olsen Orekewa Filipaina, was a pioneering rugby league great who kicked off his career with the Mangere East Hawks in the Auckland Rugby League competition.
He was named the best back in the competition in 1977 before winning the Rothville Trophy as the player of the year in 1978.
Filipaina became one of the first Polynesian players to play in the NSWRL where he enjoyed stints with North Sydney, Balmain and Easts.
He was famously plucked from reserve grade in 1985 to play for New Zealand where he led the Kiwis to a historic win over a Wally Lewis-captained Australia.
Olsen Filipaina cause of death: How did he die?
Olsen Filipaina died from kidney failure after battling the disease for years.
In January 2022, he was admitted to Westmead Hospital for kidney treatment, however, he gave up the ghost on Friday.
Olsen Filipaina wife and children
Olsen Filipaina is survived by his wife Leslie and their five children.
Filipaina is the father of Louise, John, Alysha, Quin and Jazmine. He is also grandfather to Tamati, Matahi, Ignatius and Kaimana.
His son, Quin, played in the Harold Matthews Cup side for the Tigers. Another son, John, was reportedly arrested in 2006 and charged with robbery.
Olsen Filipaina net worth: How much was he worth?
Olsen Filipaina had an estimated net worth of $2 million at the time of his death, thanks to his iconic career.
When is Olsen Filipaina funeral? Date, time, venue, service, obituary poster
His father is yet to announce the funeral and burial arrangements.
Ghanafuo.com will keep you posted.
