Two of surfing’s greats died this weekend, and were remembered by the surf community along the Orange County coast.
Surfboard shaper Chris Hawk - who was admired for his surfing style during the 70s - passed away in his San Clemente home. He had been battling against cancer. He was 58.
According to a story on the OC Register by Deepa Bharath, a makeshift memorial with surfboards, photographs and flowers stood outside Huntington Surf and Sport at the corner of Main Street and Pacific Coast Highway on Saturday.
Just a few months ago, Hawk was inducted in the Huntington Surf and Sport Hall of Fame. The ceremony usually happens during the U.S. Open of Surfing, but a special induction was held due to Hawk’s health issues.
“I’m sorry, I can’t talk much,” said a raspy-voiced Hawk on the day he was honored, one hand held up to his throat where a blue bandanna covered his neck, the other hand clutching a trophy. “This is the most honorable moment of my life.”
Hawk is survived by his wife, Kathy, and his son, Christian, 11.
Surfers also said goodbye this weekend to Joe Wood, who died last week from an apparent heart attack, according to reporter Fred Swegles.
Surfers held a paddle out on Sunday and talked about the things he loved most: surfing and kidding around with his friends.
Wood was in the water when he collapsed. Read more from Swegles story here.














