Ocean Safety is inviting the public to attend the celebration of life for one of its own lifeguards Tamayo Perry, which will be held at 3 p.m. Sunday at Sunset Beach Neighborhood Park.
Perry was killed by a shark while surfing near Malaekahana Beach on June 23.
Ocean Safety considers his death a line of duty death as he was working, but on a break, the day he was killed.
After the ceremony Sunday, a traditional paddle out will take place across the street at Ehukai Beach Park (also known as Pipeline). The Honolulu Fire Department will conduct a flower drop over the paddle out.
“We are mourning an extraordinary life lost and we want everyone who wishes to celebrate Tamayo’s life to be able to do so safely. We ask the public to be patient and respectful of the events as they unfold,” said Acting Chief of Honolulu Ocean Safety Kurt Lager in a statement.
Event organizers encourage attendees to carpool, take public transit or ride a bicycle, as the roadways in the area will be congested and there will be no parking at Sunset Beach Neighborhood Park or Ehukai Beach Park.
Perry’s family asked that no drones be flown during the service, including over the ocean, as it would interfere with the flower drop.
“The amount of aloha we have been shown in the days and weeks following Tamayo’s death has been tremendously comforting and healing,” said Emilia Perry, Tamayo’s wife, in a statement. “Myself, Tamayo’s father Tom and his two brothers will forever be grateful to all of those who were there for us and gave so much to ensure Tamayo’s celebration of life is shared with all of those who loved him.”