Josie Vella Gets Tribute Tattoo for Late Son Jake at Malta Tattoo Show

Josie Vella, father of beloved Maltese icon Jake Vella, honoured his late son with a heartfelt sleeve tattoo during the much-anticipated Malta Tattoo Show.

The emotional tribute was created by local tattoo artist Etienne Buttigieg of Tetinu Tattoo in Sliema and took three days to complete. Josie shared the tattoo’s progress on Facebook, where he later expressed his gratitude to everyone involved.

He thanked Etienne for bringing the tribute to life, as well as artist Christopher Ormond from Kri8or Tattoo, who gifted Josie a special artwork dedicated to Jake — now proudly displayed in his home.

Josie also gave thanks to Reno Sammut and the Malta Tattoo Show organisers, who donated €1,330 in Jake’s memory to the Association for Abandoned Animals.

The gesture served as both a tribute to Jake’s legacy and a touching reminder of the continued love and support from the Maltese community.

#MaltaDaily