A community is mourning the loss of a father of three who died on a work trip to New Zealand.
Jake McCoy, 34, traveled from his home in Warragul, 102 kilometers southeast of Melbourne, to New Zealand on Friday for a work conference.
After returning to his hotel, McCoy began to feel unwell and died shortly afterward.
The cause of death has not been revealed.
Jake McCoy died during a work trip to New Zealand
A Go Fund Me page has been set up to help Jake’s wife Morgan (pictured) and their three children.
Mr MCoy is believed to have worked for a specialist global travel company.
His parents, Neil and Tracey, flew to New Zealand on Saturday, while his wife Morgan stayed with their three children – six-year-old Maddison, four-year-old Oliver and eight-week-old Ashton.
Morgan’s best friend, Zoe Elsbury, told the Herald of the sun Mrs Morgan was still on maternity leave due to her job in the healthcare sector.
He said Morgan was a “super dad” and had been providing for the family.
“Cooking, cleaning, going to school… it was amazing.”
He said Morgan’s death will leave a “huge” hole in everyone’s lives.
“Leaving your young family behind is unimaginable and quite difficult to comprehend.”
Morgan’s best friends Amy and Mick said Morgan was a hands-on father who would do anything for his family.
They said he was a loyal friend and sports lover and, although he liked the idea of DIY projects, he would need to call on friends and family to help him complete the job.
“We fondly remember many years of friendship and will greatly miss his infectious laugh, sense of humor and witty comebacks,” they said.
TO GoFundMe page It has been created to help the family.
“Jake wholeheartedly adored his little family 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 surrounding them forever, without their Jake, life 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 a great guy even in elementary and high school. He will be missed by many. RIP Jake x,” one wrote.
A second added: “Can’t believe you’re gone Jake.” Truly one of the best friends I have made at work and I will never forget all the laughs we had.”
A third said: “A great human being gone too soon.” To the entire McCoy family, I am so sorry for your loss and hope this can relieve some of the stress at such a difficult time for all of you. Thinking of all of you.’