Freddy Rice takes his last ride: Ranching and rodeo communities celebrate his life and legacy

Freddy Rice loved polo and played in college and his adulthood at professional venues in Hawaii and on the mainland. This photograph, taken in Honaunau at the Kona-Kau Roping and Polo Club Arena that he started with his first wife, Sally, includes (left to right) George Manoa, Rice, Dick Solmensen and George Hedeman. (COURTESY PHOTO

Freddy’s beloved horse, Honeygirl, attends Friday’s service. (LANDRY FULLER/SPECIAL TO WEST HAWAII TODAY)

Freddy regularly participated in rodeos throughout Hawaii for more than 60 years. He enjoyed team roping in particular and at age 83, was still competing in local rodeos, a talent he shared with his children and grandchildren. (COURTESY PHOTO)

Freddy’s wife, Gail, speaks with McGraw, Freddie’s son and his wife, Jennifer, before the event at Pukalani Stables. (LANDRY FULLER/SPECIAL TO WEST HAWAII TODAY)

Dozens of photos taken of Freddy Rice with his family and friends over the decades decorate the tables Friday at his memorial celebration in Waimea. (LANDRY FULLER/SPECIAL TO WEST HAWAII TODAY)

WAIMEA — Several hundred people from multi-generations came out in force Friday to attend a memorial celebration of one of their own — Harold “Freddy” Rice Jr. — at Pukalani Stables. He died Jan. 5 at age 83.