The paddling community will have an opportunity to honor Paul Gay, a heralded waterman, canoe builder and coach who died on Aug. 30. He was 75.

The public is invited to celebrate Gay’s life at a service scheduled for Oct. 19 at 8:30 a.m. The gathering will take place at Lanikai Community Park, followed by a paddle out at nearby Lanikai Beach to scatter Gay’s ashes. Canoes from Lanikai and Kailua canoe clubs will be used, and attendees are encouraged to bring their own paddles, surfboards, one-man canoes or paddleboards.

According to Gay’s daughter Dani, attendees are encouraged to also bring loose flowers (no lei) and dress in casual beach attire.