>> Photo gallery of Rabbit Kekai

Waikiki surfing icon Albert “Rabbit” Kekai died this morning at Leahi Hospital on Oahu.

He was 95.

Kekai was among the beach boys trained by legendary surfer Duke Kahanamoku, introducing the sport of surfing to countless residents and visitors, including celebrities.

Considered the father of modern hotdogging, Kekai served as the beach master for many surfing events, including the Triple Crown of Surfing.

“It’s an end of an era,” said Randy Rarick, a co-founder of the Triple Crown.

Rarick said Kekai taught him surfing at age 10.

“He led a great life,” Rarick said. “He’s riding that big wave in the sky, happy with what he’s done.”