Friends and family of kumu hula Rae Fonseca paid tribute to one of the most honored teachers of the hula community at a public celebration of life yesterday at Sangha Hall in Hilo.

A private scattering of ashes followed.

Fonseca, who founded Hula Hālau O Kahikilaulani, died March 20 after collapsing following a performance at the Lei O Lanikuhonua Hula Festival in Ko Olina. He was 56.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Fonseca's memory may be made to Hula Hālau O Kahikilaulani, 121 Banyan Drive, Hilo, HI 96720.