Waterman remembered for heart and zest for life

Family members grappling with the death of 59-year-old Sri Shim, who was fatally struck by a boat while free driving in waters off Lanikai, remembered him Wednesday for his sense of exuberance and childlike wonder.

Shim was an avid waterman who loved to surf, relatives said during a news conference at the Queen’s Medical Center. They further described him as “the coolest guy ever,” fun-loving and “stoked on life.”

Shim and Trey Albrecht, 25, the son of Shim’s longtime partner, Sue Deuber, who Shim had raised as his own son, were free diving and spearfishing Saturday afternoon when a passing boat struck them. Albrecht was transported to Queen’s in serious condition.

Shim’s body was recovered later that day about 200 feet from his boat. He died of “blunt force and propeller injury,” according to the Medical Examiner’s Office, which classified his death as an accident.

“It was such a beautiful day out and it turned into the worst day of our lives,” daughter Alyson Shim said during the news conference.

Shim, of Kailua, was owner of the Hale Koa flower shop, which he had closed a few months ago.

Albrecht, who is expected to be discharged from Queen’s today, said he sustained three separate lacerations on his left arm: one near his wrist, another on the center of his forearm and the third by his elbow. Doctors reattached tendons in his injured arm.

He also suffered bruising to the left side of the body from his knee up to his rib cage.

Albrecht is expected to recover fully and hopes to help teach the community about water safety.

Relatives declined to discuss details tied to the accident because of the ongoing investigation.

They thanked the community for the overwhelming support.

Shim is also survived by daughters Lauren Kawahakui and Meleana Shim; brothers Neumann, Pono and Sy Shim; half brother Liko Martin; sisters Dari Matsuura and Dana Shim; and a granddaughter.

A celebration of life and paddle-out to honor Shim is set for Jan. 23. Details on the time and location are pending. A memorial fund is in place to assist Shim’s family with expenses. Donations can be made at bit.ly/1PsxxJP.