SOUTH HADLEY — Marina owner Luke Brunelle died unexpectedly Thursday evening, the family reported in a statement.

Brunelle, 61, was widely respected and admired for his dedication to providing exceptional service and fostering a welcoming environment for boating enthusiasts, the family’s statement said.

“As the owner of Brunelle’s Marina, he created a thriving hub that brought joy to countless individuals and families,” the statement read. “His legacy will continue to inspire and influence the boating community for years to come.”

The family declined further comment, but said a formal statement would be issued at a later date. The cause of death was not disclosed.

Gary Pelissier, owner of the Sportsman’s Marina in Hadley, said he was “totally devastated” when he heard the news, and offered deepest condolences to the Brunelle family.

He said the two of them were competitors but they weren’t in competition.

“There was always enough business for both of us,” he said. “We supported each other.”

Oxbow Marina co-owner Shelley Duda Anderson said Brunelle had a great personality and would be sadly missed.

He exemplified the cooperative spirit of the river businesses, she said.

“We all work together to try to help each other out,” she said, “especially Luke Brunelle.”

July has been a hard month for the marina. Its docks suffered extensive damage from this week’s floods, which hammered the business during its busiest season.

Brunelle had said in a statement he was “committed to restoring operations once it is deemed safe to do so.”

Last week, Brunelle was grappling with unfavorable conditions due to high water and debris that kept boats tied up for several days.

“We spent the last two days pulling logs off our docks,” he told the Gazette.

Earlier in the month, the marina prohibited the launching of jet skis and similar personal watercraft because of concerns over safety and liability.

Brunelle’s father and grandfather started the business along the Connecticut River in 1959. The marina is home to the Lady Bea river cruise boat, and for many years has hosted the Leprechaun Plunge, a St. Patrick’s Day swim for charity.

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