Body Of Missing LI Boater Found: 'He Will Be So Deeply Missed'

GREAT SOUTH BAY, NY — The body of a boater who went missing on Sunday in the Great South Bay has been recovered, Village of Babylon Mayor Mary E. Adams said.

James Jaronczyk, 28, of Massapequa, was found Thursday morning by Suffolk County underwater marine rescue, with "family and friends gathered," she said.

"He was found in the location where rescue teams and divers were concentrating on, just west of the Village Pool," said Adams on social media.

Jaronczyk was alone on a 22-foot Progression speedboat at about 4:33 p.m. on the Great South Bay when he fell into the water, police said.

For the past four days, the boating community came together in a tremendous show of support and compassion to search for Jaronczyk on boats, jet skis, kayaks, and by diving.

"During this tragedy, think of all the volunteers, family friends, or a simple stranger that all pulled together offering assistance to bring home someone's child," said Susan Tocci, who is a member of the Long Island Boating community. "This young man's life was cut short, but a legacy in bringing people together when our world is so broken. Rest in eternal peace, racing boats in the sky."

Out of respect for the Jaronczyk family, the Village pool parking lot will only be open for family and friends at this time, Adams said.

"James… May you rest in peace and shine your love and strength down on your family forever," she said. "May God’s strength and His love and peace comfort the Jaronczyk family and their friends during this incredibly difficult time. The Village of Babylon sends to the entire Jaronczyk family our love, thoughts and prayers."

A GoFundMe campaign, "Support for James Jaronczyk’s Family" was created by community members on Wednesday to help financially support the Jaronczyk family. It has so far raised $150 out of a $500 goal as of Thursday.

Friends and family members of Jaronczyk also took to social media, grieving the beloved boater.

Brianna Marchionda, Jaronczyk's cousin, told Patch he loved being in the water ever since he was young, and grew up to be a fierce, competitive speedboat racer.

"It was undeniably his calling," she said. "He will be so deeply missed."

Jaronczyk was a "beloved, free-spirited soul" who "left a mark on everyone who had the privilege" of knowing him.

"With a heart of gold and an infectious zest for life, he brought joy, laughter, and love to every moment he lived," she said. "James was more than just a thrill-seeker; he was a gentle and caring soul."

Marchionda continued to say that Jaronczyk was an "amazing son, uncle, cousin, nephew, and friend" who would always make sure you were cared for. He had an infectious laugh and a "unique way" of making everyone around him feel special.

"James, you were a true gift too good for this world. We will forever cherish the laughter, the love, and the lessons you shared," said Marchionda." We will carry your spirit within us, inspired to embrace each day with the same unwavering passion that defined your extraordinary existence. In honor of James, let us remember to live each day as he did—fearlessly, joyfully, and with hearts wide open."