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Family members of those lost at sea off the coast of Massachusetts petitioning Navy to help bring closure for loved ones
BOSTON — Family members for the missing crewmembers from the fishing vessel Lily Jean are looking for some help so they can have a proper goodbye for their loved ones.
At the end of January, Coast Guard crews searched after receiving an emergency position-indicating radio beacon activation from the 72-foot fishing vessel, approximately 25 miles off the coast of Cape Ann, Massachusetts. Seven people were aboard the vessel.
During the search, Coast Guard air and surface crews located a debris field near the beacon’s reported position, recovered one unresponsive individual from the water, captain Gus Sanfillippo, and located the vessel’s life raft, which was deployed but unoccupied.
Coast Guard crews conducted coordinated search patterns based on weather conditions, sea state and available evidence and covered approximately 1,047 square miles over 24 hours using multiple aircraft, cutters and small boats.
After consultation between search and rescue mission coordinators and on-scene commanders, the Coast Guard determined that all reasonable search efforts for the missing crewmembers had been exhausted.
With 6 of the 7 occupants still not recovered, family of the deceased have created a Change.org petition looking for the Navy’s help.
“We are calling on the US Navy to lend their expertise and resources in assisting with the recovery of those lost at sea due to this tragic event. The US Navy has unparalleled expertise in underwater recovery operations, and, with their assistance, we believe it is possible to bring our loved ones back home where they belong.
“The invaluable service the Navy can provide in this situation is crucial not only for the recovery of those we lost but also for the comfort and peace it would bring to several families who are currently struggling with this immeasurable loss. We urge those in power to recognize this dire need and help our community in its time of sorrow.”
According to family and a GoFundMe fundraiser, John Paul Rousanidis “was born in Salem, Massachusetts, and raised in Peabody until he was eight years old. He spent the rest of his childhood and young adult years growing up in Greece, before returning to Massachusetts to be with his beloved family and friends and to chase his dreams. John loved fishing, boxing, and enjoying life to the fullest. He was an amazing brother, son, and uncle—a hard worker who never said no to anyone he met. His kindness, determination, and generosity inspired everyone around him.”
A GoFundMe fundraiser and family stated that 44-year-old Sean Therrien “was a devoted partner, father, son, brother, and friend taken far too soon. Sean grew up in Lynn, graduated from Lynn Technical High School, and later made his home in Peabody. He was a hardworking family man whose life revolved around the people he loved most. Those who knew Sean will remember his great sense of humor, his generous heart, and the pride he took in providing for his family. When he wasn’t working, he loved riding dirt bikes, four-wheeling, building and racing RC cars, and spending time with his kids—always finding ways to make people laugh and feel welcome.”
Loved ones and a GoFundMe fundraiser revealed that Freeman Short, from Marshfield/ Scituate, and his family never hesitated to provide a place to land, a meal, guidance, or simply love.
An obituary stated that Sanfilippo “had a deep passion for the water, whether dragging offshore or inshore striped bass fishing with his son, with whom he spent countless hours with. He also enjoyed going tuna fishing in the summers. He enjoyed visiting the Choate Bridge Pub, taking family vacations, cooking for those he loved, listening to country music, and dancing.”
According to an obituary, Paul Beal Jr. “instantly took a love to the ocean. Growing up on the Mill River he and his cousins could always be found in the mud with a bucket full of crabs and clams or standing on the rocks at high tide with a fishing pole in hand. They were known as the river rats by many in the neighborhood.”
An obituary noted that Paul Beal Sr. “followed his heart to the ocean. It was a way of life for the Beal Family dating back to ancestors in Beals Island, Maine. Paul will be remembered by his hard work, generosity, kindness and love he had for family. And of course, his smile and laugh that would light up any room.”
