Cal. Harb. & Nav. Code § 605

Where the nonresident has died prior to the commencement of a suit, action or proceeding brought pursuant to this chapter service of process shall be made on the executor or administrator of the nonresident in the same manner and on the same notice as is provided in the case of the nonresident. Where a suit, action or proceeding has been duly commenced under the provisions of this chapter by service upon a defendant or respondent who dies thereafter, the court shall allow the suit, action or proceeding to be continued against his executor or administrator upon motion with such notice as the court deems proper.