Clean his shop, organize his tools. Be there when he calls and asks you to hold stuff while he tacks it together. Listen to his Sea stories... He probably is looking forward to having you around. I bet that is the best compensation in his opinion.
"always let your conscience be your guide" jiminy cricket
sounds like youve got the makings of a real good friendship there.
im sure hes not after money. things will even out,
with an open mind and a free heart and you can accomplish just about anything.
welcome to the forum
darren