HONOLULU (KHON2) -- Loved ones of Hiram Solomon Kana’o deFries-Saronitman, one of two pilots killed in a plane crash last month, gathered at Punahou School for his funeral services. Download the free KHON2 app for iOS or Android to stay informed on the latest news The 24-year-old Punahou graduate was tragically killed on Dec. 17, when a small Cessna airplane he was on crashed into an abandoned building near Honolulu Airport. One other pilot was killed. Loved ones said Hiram was a son, fiancé, brother, grandson, uncle, nephew and friend with roots in Papakolea, Kewalo and Kalawahine. Preliminary report released for fatal Kamaka Air crash His family said he excelled at Punahou on and off the field, lettering in football and baseball while embodying teamwork, discipline and perseverance. After graduating in 2020, he attended Saddleback College as a scholar athlete who earned a spot on the academic All-State football team and was honored as Bobcat of the Year. After achieving his Associate of Arts degree, Hiram returned to Oahu to continue his education at the University of Hawaii at Manoa. His family said Hiram found peace at Wawamalu (Sandy’s Beach) which was his sanctuary, a second home where he could breathe deeply and feel at one with the world. According to the family, he said, “I always end up at the ocean, because the gracefulness of the ocean soothes and calms me.” Hiram deeply loved fishing. His family said his goal was always to fill the ice box – not just for his family but for his community and anyone in need. "Hiram was a provider, a protector and a calming presence -– a man whose legacy will forever ripple like the ocean waves he deeply loved," his family wrote. His family said Hiram always dreamed of flying and being a pilot. In 2023, Hiram traveled to Little Falls, Minnesota where he earned his commercial pilot license, dedicating himself to delivering essential food, supplies, mail, and medication to rural island communities like Kalaupapa, Kaunakakai and Lanai City. Loved ones said his teachers and coaches were like second parents, guiding him and helping to shape his character, values, and aloha for the community. Though his life was cut short, his family said, he leaves behind a lasting legacy of love and aloha. Check out more news from around Hawaii “He taught us to pursue our dreams, treasure ohana, and find true happiness in love. His spirit will forever remain a guiding light, inspiring us to live each day with love, purpose, and gratitude.” The ohana extends their heartfelt gratitude to everyone for the outpouring of love, prayers and support.