Community Gathers for Heartfelt Paddle Out in Memory of Dean Garati

5406 Olano Street, Palmetto, FL, 34221, USA - In a profound moment of community and grief, friends, family, and surfers will gather on August 3, 2025, to honor the legacy of Dean Garati, a beloved figure in Sarasota/Bradenton, Florida. Dean, 45, passed away unexpectedly on May 30, 2025, but his spirit will be celebrated with a cherished paddle out ceremony, a reflection of his deep connection to the ocean and the relationships he fostered.

Born on September 18, 1979, in Richmond, Virginia, Dean built a distinguished career as the owner of Palmfish Communications Inc. since 2012, drawing from his extensive background in the cable industry. He was known for his integrity, kindness, thoroughness, and respect—qualities that resonated with everyone he encountered. Dean leaves behind his four daughters: Coral Summerlyn, Zalea Augustine, Zenna Jean, and Zoria Ann, as well as their mother, Desiree Chubb. His wife Annamarie Carroll, mother Dinah Garati, sister Crystal Perry and her husband Scott, niece Madison Perry, and great-niece Charlie also grieve his loss.

A Symbolic Farewell

The paddle out will serve not just as a memorial, but as a celebration of Dean’s life. Participants will paddle out to the serene waters of Cortez Beach, reflecting on the kindness and warmth he shared with others. The traditional Hawaiian ceremony involves gathering surfers and community members, observing a moment of silence, and tossing flowers into the sea as a tribute—a practice that honors those who’ve passed and reinforces the connections within the surfing culture.

As noted by Tides Glide, these paddle out ceremonies symbolize the transition from grief to celebration, where friends and family come together to encapsulate the love and respect for the deceased. The act of paddling out not only serves as a farewell but strengthens community bonds, providing support during moments of loss. Dean’s paddle out will likely include eco-friendly rose petals, a beautiful acknowledgment of his love for nature and the ocean, echoing practices that have been observed at recent notable paddle outs for community icons.

The Beauty of Community

Within the surfing culture, paddle outs are a deeply emotional tribute, allowing participants to share personal stories and memories. They foster camaraderie among those who gather, reinforcing the spirit of community that Dean cherished. His love for the ocean—evident in his passions for surfing, boating, and exploring state parks—will be celebrated on that day as friends and family create a circle in the water, embodying the respect and love they hold for him.

Donations to support his daughters can be made through the GoFundMe link shared by family, ensuring that Dean’s legacy continues to support those he treasured most. For those who wish to send their condolences, cards can be mailed to 5406 Olano Street, Palmetto FL 34221.

As the community prepares for this heartfelt celebration, it serves as a reminder of the importance of connection, not just to nature but to one another. Dean Garati’s impact will be woven into the memories and lives of those he touched, and the paddle out ceremony will stand as a testament to that enduring spirit.

For more on paddle out ceremonies and their significance in honoring lives, check out the insights from Pinterest and Tides Glide, which delve into the rich traditions that make these rituals so profound.