TowBoatUS Islamorada Captain Dies In Line of Duty

During the night of April 1, the marine assistance industry lost one of our finest. Capt. Lee McCune, of TowBoatU.S. Islamorada, was underway to a grounded vessel in the Florida Keys when his vessel reportedly struck a submerged object and rolled over. Capt. Lee's wife and deckhand, Diana, was thrown clear and received minor injuries, but Lee was trapped beneath the vessel and, tragically, did not survive.

Those of us who work on the water do so knowing that, ultimately, we are at the whim of Mother Nature and Father Poseidon. We venture out in all conditions, answering the calls of others and the call that emanates from within. Sadly, we are often reminded that, regardless of how many years we have been at the helm, it takes just a split second, an infinitesimal turn of the globe, for life as we know it to be irreversibly altered.

Capt. Lee was an avid power boater, photographer, and videographer. He partnered with his parents in the family towing business and hoped to take over as his mother neared retirement. Most recently, Lee was instrumental in the formation of the Florida Keys chapter of C-Port, our national trade organization for the marine assistance industry.

Any colleague, boater, or individual who spent time with Lee or his family would attest to his kind and gentle nature. His remarkable ability to surpass any hurdle with humor and wit was outmatched only by his easy smile and infectious laugh. Above all, Lee held an amazing dedication to assisting those in need. He stood resolutely at the helm for many years, but was sadly deprived many more.

Lee is survived by his mother Barrie, his wife Diana, and their teenage son. Our thoughts and prayers are with them.

John Fulweiler commented on 06-Apr-2010 04:13 PM

A well written and fitting euology. -- JKF

Troup Nightingale commented on 31-May-2010 10:16 PM

As a TowBoatUS Captain who has lost a vessel in the act of carrying out my TowBoatUS duty, I have great feelings for this situation. I give my deepest regrets.
Troup Nightingale
TowBoatUS Brunswick, Georgia

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