McVay service to reunite Beamer duo
By Wayne Harada
Advertiser Entertainment Editor
Keola and Kapono Beamer will perform "Honolulu City Lights" at the Friday morning memorial services for Kimo Wilder McVay at the Outrigger Canoe Club, a favorite hangout for the late talent manager.
The Beamer brothers haven't performed together in 20 years since a much-publicized split, but Keola Beamer, who lives on Maui, said the get-together is not a sign of things to come.
Advertiser library photo • March 7, 2001
Advertiser library photo • May 23, 1999
The Beamer brothers — Keola, left, and Kapono — have not performed together for 20 years. They'll take the stage together Friday in Kimo McVay's memory.
It is, he said, "just a simple sharing of aloha in Kimo's memory. I know if the shoe were on the other foot ... Kimo would have come through."
"That was one of Kimo's last wishes, that Keola and Kapono would come together one more time," said Betsy McVay, the promoter's widow.
McVay, 73, died of cancer Thursday at Kaiser Moanalua Medical Center. His "celebration of life" will be from 8-10 a.m. Friday.
Among the former clients and friends who will pay tribute: Comedian Andy Bumatai, who will emcee; Don Ho, whose career McVay helped launch; and a reunited version of the Krush featuring Hal Bradbury, Edwin Ramones, Bobby Gonzales and Jess Gamiao.
Show director Cha Thompson, promoter Tom Moffatt, columnist Dave Donnelly and magician John Hirokawa will speak.
Friends may visit from 8 a.m., with Maunalua performing some of McVay's favorite songs.
Services start at 8:30 a.m. Pastor Jerry Saludez of United Fellowship will offer prayer and a message.
Betsy McVay said donations in Kimo McVay's name may be made to a favorite charity in lieu of flowers.
Led by daughter Lindsay Roberson, McVay's ashes will be scattered off Waikiki, following the services.
