How Should We Remember Tamayo Perry?
Friends and family have flooded social media with heartfelt messages about one of the North Shore’s great pillars.
It’s a poignant reality that we often miss hearing the love and respect others have for us while we are alive. Such outpourings of affection and memories usually come after we’ve passed. While Tamayo may not be able to scroll through Instagram and see these tributes, it’s beautiful to witness obituaries crafted by close friends and family, rather than just a journalist assigned to the task.
Here are three of our favorite tributes to Tamayo written so far:
From Moana Jones Wong: “If you know Tamayo, you know his two favorite spots were Goats and Pipe. I can’t count the hours I spent in the lineup at both spots with him and his wife, Emilia Perry. I will cherish all our memories forever. I used to joke that I was the daughter they never had. Tamayo, you were one of a kind, and I love you so much. You and Emilia were always some of my biggest supporters at Pipe, and of course at Goats. We are going to miss you forever.
Today, when I heard someone passed at Goats, I somehow knew it was you (probably because I know your routine so well and know there are only a few of us who always surf this spot). When I got confirmation, my heart sank.
When I went down there just now, it was dark and gloomy, but when I placed four flowers in the lava pound and took out my phone to record, the clouds parted just enough to light up the surf spot.
The flowers were taken by the ocean in that moment, and I knew you were there. I won’t be out there again anytime soon, but when I do go back, I’ll know you are there and always will be. His blood runs through these waters; he is home, he is part of this place forever.”
From Tom Carroll: “Oh man. Weighty news. Bless you Tamayo, may you rest in Love brother. Very special memories with you at Pipe, sitting way inside, taking each other deeper. Always a beautiful energy emanating from your soul, water or land…thank you for being you! Sadness for those loved ones left behind in the wake of grief…sending big love to you all.”
From Shayden Pacarro: “Sad to lose a good friend and hero, but what a legend from start to finish! Besides Pipeline, Tamayo is the GOAT island mascot! He deserves a statue over there!”
49-year-old Tamayo was a gifted Pipe specialist, Hollywood stuntman, father, and friend. He suffered a fatal shark attack near Laie, Hawaii earlier today. We hope to keep his legacy alive in our minds right now and learn even more about him from his loved ones in the days to come. Thank you for your devotion to surfing, Tamayo.
