Gene Moimoi Young, beloved son and father, devoted brother and friend, died unexpectedly on February 14, 2023 in Miami, FL.

Gene was born April 21, 1980 in Seaside, CA, the 5th child of 8, to Brian and Apaula Sulimoni Young. He grew up in California, Germany, Virginia, and Utah where he graduated from Hunter High School in 1998. In his youth, he developed his talents as an actor and singer. He starred in musicals and eventually was invited to sing a solo at high school graduation, still remembered by his classmates today. He was awarded a scholarship to Utah Valley University, and he attended there with a break to serve a two-year LDS mission to Brazil and Florida. When he returned to school after his mission, he continued to perform in film and stage productions, and also started to develop his songwriting skills. He wrote and produced many singles and an entire album. He was instrumental in the initial productions of the Liken the Scriptures musical film series that became widely distributed throughout his worldwide faith community. He was accepted to Brigham Young University into the Music Dance Theater program. However, he deferred attending to pursue a performing career on Holland America and Royal Caribbean cruise lines with his then fiancé, Rickae Bean. And that was the last time he would call land his home.

Gene and Rickae were married in Bountiful, in 2003. They cruised together performing for large and small audiences around the world. They welcomed a son, Clint Taaga Tasi Young—a carbon copy of Gene in so many ways. They would later end their marriage, but remained dedicated parents, working together for Clint.

Gene was married to Jodie Holness of Capel le Ferne, England from 2014 to 2017. They were also able to work and travel together on a cruise ship as Gene developed a new career as a Cruise Director.

Gene quickly became one of the highest rated Cruise Directors for Holland America. He was known for bringing joy to his guests and colleagues on different cruise ships, most notably, on the Grand World Voyages. His director remembers he had never seen anyone create more fun for everyone on the cruise, including, and especially, those who were the most-mobility challenged. Gene eventually took his talents to MSC Cruiselines and was the first American, as well as Samoan, Cruise Director for MSC. He loved his colleagues like his own family. He was considered an innovator for the company, and was excited to move into a new role as a land-based entertainment director for all of MSCs ships.

Gene met Larissa Macedo of Sao Paulo Brazil in 2019. They were engaged to be married on March 11, 2023. He was so excited to start a new chapter of life with Larissa as a land-based husband and father, as they are expecting a child later this year.

Gene is a beloved son, brother, and friend. His family, friends, , and colleagues know him as someone who could make every moment of life fun and adventurous. He was equally professional, entertaining, and irreverent. He could make the most pious event a time it was hard to keep a straight face. He loved deeply and could write his emotions into moving words and melodies. His boisterous laugh and larger-than-life personality will be sorely missed by all of his loved ones and colleagues.

Gene is survived by his son, Clint; his fiancé, Larissa Macedo; his mother, Apaula Sulimoni (Suli); his siblings, Shiloah Gilmore, Taaga James (T.J.), Maoputasi (Tasi), Lois Proctor, Anya Wilson, Jared and Kayla Rawle; his numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his father, Nolan Brian Young.

His funeral services will be held Saturday, Feb 25th, at 11 a.m. at the Utah Cultural Celebration Center in West Valley City Utah. A viewing will be held one hour prior to the service.

The family asks that, in lieu of flowers, please consider donating to this fund that is set up to support his children.

https://www.gofundme.com/f/gene-moimoi-youngs-sweet-family