A farewell like Israel Kamakawiwo’ole

La'i lua ke kai - The sea is calm. All is peaceful.

Hawaiian musician Israel Kamakawiwo’ole died in 1997 following health problems and was one of only three people to receive the honour of lying in state in a koa-wood coffin at the Capitol building in Honolulu. The ashes of the singer of "Somewhere Over The Rainbow" were scattered in the sea at M’kua Beach, with thousands of mourners present. Although Israel was not a surfer, a paddle-out ceremony was also held on the water in his honour. We can arrange a funeral ceremony overseas, including a prior lying in state and, if desired, a koa-wood coffin. With care and close attention to detail, we organise a traditional and moving Hawaiian paddle-out ceremony on the open sea for you and your family. We provide family members with surfboards, flower garlands and, of course, a waterproof urn. We also arrange a suitable facilitator who invites friends and family, one by one, to speak about the person who has died. This is an especially moving and emotional part of the ceremony, creating a lasting memory. As a special service, you can also receive free access to the new LIFE ID funeral planning app and an entry in the "Horizon" guestbook of life, so that those you love can visit you there at any time. Image sources include: Pinterest