How Should We Remember Tamayo Perry?

How Ought We Memorialize Tamayo Perry? Companions and kin inundate social platforms with heartfelt tributes to a cornerstone of the North Shore community.

Peruse our comprehensive narrative on Tamayo Perry’s life and demise here. Our condolences extend to Tamayo’s family and friends during this period.

It’s a poignant truth that we seldom hear the accolades and admiration people hold for us while we’re alive.

Such effusions of affection and reminiscence generally emerge posthumously, and though we may not peruse these sentiments on our social feeds, it’s touching to witness obituaries penned by those closest to the departed, rather than merely a journalist assigned to the obituaries column.

Thus, with that in mind, here are three cherished homages to Tamayo thus far:

From Moana Jones Wong — 

“If you know Tamayo, you know his two cherished spots were Goats and Pipe. Countless hours were spent with him and his spouse, Emilia Perry, at these locales. I’ll treasure our memories eternally. I often jested, calling myself the daughter they never had. Tamayo, you were truly unique, and I love you dearly. You and Emilia were my steadfast supporters at Pipe and Goats, naturally. We shall miss you perpetually. Today, when I heard someone had perished at Goats, something told me it was you (probably because I know your habits so intimately, and few frequent that spot as you did). When confirmation came, my heart plummeted. Visiting there now, it was dismal and tempestuous, but placing four blossoms in the lava pound, as I recorded, the clouds parted just enough to illuminate the surf spot, and the flowers were carried into the ocean at that moment. I knew you were there. I won’t return there soon, but when I do, I’ll know you’re always present. Your essence is in these waters, you are home, part of this place for eternity.”

From Tom Carroll — 

“Oh man. Heavy news. Bless you, Tamayo, may you repose in Love, brother. Profound memories with you at Pipe, sitting way inside, challenging each other. Always radiating beautiful energy, on water or land…thank you for being you! Sadness engulfs those left in the aftermath of grief…sending immense love to you all.”

And from Shayden Pacarro — 

“Heartbreaking to lose a dear friend and idol, but what a legend from start to finish! Besides Pipeline, Tamayo is the ultimate island mascot! He merits a statue there!”

Tamayo, 49, was a consummate Pipe expert, Hollywood stuntman, father, and friend. He succumbed to a fatal shark attack near Laie, Hawaii earlier today. We aspire to honor his legacy in our thoughts and learn more about him from his loved ones in the days to come. Thanks for your dedication to surfing, Tamayo.