Paddle out and get-together planned for Gary Deats

A few years ago Gary Deats helped organize the first Seal Beach Gathering of people who grew up in Seal Beach and started a reunion every other year when they would get together to enjoy stories and visit with friends. That first year focused on the late, beloved Seal Beach police officer Benny Garza.

Deats, a driving force behind the gathering, passed away on Aug. 30.

Friends of the Seal Beach Gathering will hold a service for Deats starting with a paddle out at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 19 on the beach at the end of 8th Street in Seal Beach. Following the service friends and family will be invited to O’Malleys on Main from 1-4p.m. in the patio area to share stories.