Tragedy as young Aussie dad suddenly dies while on a work trip – leaving behind three children
A community is mourning the loss of a father-of-three who died during a business trip to New Zealand.
Jake McCoy, 34, traveled to New Zealand from his home in Warragul, 102km southeast of Melbourne, on Friday for a work conference.
After returning to his hotel, Mr McCoy began to feel unwell and died shortly afterwards.
The cause of death has not been announced.
Jake McCoy died during a business trip to New Zealand
A Go Fund Me page has been created to help Jake’s wife Morgan (pictured) and their three children
It is believed that Mr McCoy worked for a global specialist travel agency.
His parents Neil and Tracey flew to New Zealand on Saturday, while his wife Morgan stayed with them with their three children: six-year-old Maddison, four-year-old Oliver and eight-week-old Ashton.
Ms. McCoy’s best friend, Zoe Elsbury, told the story Herald Sun Ms McCoy was still on maternity leave from her work in healthcare.
She said Mr McCoy was a “super dad” and cared for the family.
‘Cooking, cleaning, school running – he was incredible.’
She said Mr McCoy’s death will leave a “huge” hole in everyone’s lives.
‘Leaving his young family behind is unimaginable and difficult to comprehend.’
Mr McCoy’s best friends, Amy and Mick, said he was a hands-on father who would do anything for his family.
They said he was a loyal friend and sports enthusiast and while he liked the idea of DIY projects, he would have to rely on friends and family to get the job done.
“We look back fondly on many years of friendship and will greatly miss his infectious laugh, sense of humor and quick comebacks,” they said.
a GoFundMe page was founded to help the family.
“Jake loved his little family with all his heart and did everything he could to give them the life they truly deserve,” the organizer said.
“Although Morgan and the children will never be alone, with family and friends around them forever, life without their Jake seems unimaginably difficult.”
Tributes to Jake on the page offered condolences to his family.
“My deepest condolences to the McCoy family, sending hugs to Morgan and the children at this difficult time. Jake was such a great guy, even in elementary and middle school. He will be missed by so many. RIP Jake x,” wrote one.
A second added: “I can’t quite believe you’re gone Jake. Truly one of the best friends I’ve ever made at work, and I’ll never forget all the fun we had.’
A third said: ‘A great man gone far too soon. To the entire McCoy family, I am deeply sorry for your loss and hope this can alleviate some of the stress during this difficult time for all of you. I’m thinking of you all.’