(WWJ) - A Traverse City man has died after an accident aboard a Great Lakes freighter Monday night.
According to Boatnerd News, Second Mate Richard Gray, 35, was aboard the ship Walter J. McCarthy Jr. as it was anchored offshore in Gary, Indiana at the time of his death.
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The details surrounding the accident have not been released.
Gary was a Traverse City native and a graduate of the area's Great Lakes Maritime Academy -- he was also active in the International Shipmasters' Association.
He is survived by his wife, Danielle, and their three children.
Gary's fellow shipmate and good friend, Ryan Miller, described Gary as well-liked and well-known by many in a Go Fund Me page he organized to help with funeral expenses.
"He has been my friend since we were cadets and we’ve worked together for several years now as well," Miller wrote. "He was a fantastic man who would do anything for a friend without hesitation and had done so for me on many occasions."
The Great Lakes Maritime Academy posted its own tribute to the late mariner on Facebook.
"It is with heavy heart we say farewell to an alumni and friend gone too soon, Richard Gray," the Academy said.
"We wish you fair wins & following seas Richard."
Visitation arrangements have been made for Tuesday, Jan. 25 from 6 to 8 p.m. at Reynolds Jonkhoff Funeral Home in Traverse City -- a rosary recitation is scheduled for 5:30 p.m.
A Funeral Mass will take place at Immaculate Conception Church on Wednesday Jan. 26 at 11:00 a.m. with visitation from 10 to 11 a.m.
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