The sudden passing of a well-known fitness coach and trainer and bodybuilder has shocked many fitness enthusiasts in Samoa and abroad. 

Chris Etuale of Magiagi, who was in his late 30s, was admitted to the Tupua Tamasese Meaole National Hospital after he was diagnosed with cancer before his passing on Thursday.

Etuale, popularly known among his friends and peers as "coach", was a trainer of the JP Fitness Xtreme Fitness Challenge and had touched the lives of many people in Samoa in their fitness journey.

Hundreds of those who crossed paths with him flooded social media on Thursday with condolence messages and paid tribute to his legacy while sharing the many health and life lessons he instilled in them. 

The Crossfit Fatutoa Gym also expressed their condolences to Etuale's partner, Mitch Lemisio and their daughter Chloe.

"Chris was a dedicated trainer and fitness coach at JP's Gym who believed in the vision of healthy minds and healthy bodies," they wrote on their official Facebook page. "His well-known reputation for excellence in the local fitness industry was a testament to his unwavering commitment and genuine desire to help others. 

"We will certainly miss Chris and his presence at our Toa Competition each year, embodying the Toa spirit of inclusion and the belief in the potential of people. Fitness is and should be for everyone, and Chris had certainly contributed to changing the lives of many. Our thoughts are with his loved ones during this difficult time."

The University of the South Pacific (U.S.P.) Samoa Campus Gym also acknowledged his work at the university's gym at Alafua. 

"We are saddened to learn of the sudden passing of our dear friend and coach Chris Etuale," they wrote on their official Facebook account. "You moved mountains with your passion to motivate everyone who had the pleasure of meeting you, to do better and get healthier. 

"Our heartfelt condolences to your darling girls Mitch and Chloe. Rest in eternal love Coach."

Samoa's Body Building Federation also paid homage to Chris' passion and dedication while he was alive. 

"Fly high Chris," they said. "As an athlete, you were always in fine form, we saw and admired your passion for our sport and maintaining an active lifestyle. Rest in peace."