BOYNTON BEACH, Fla. — Loved ones of a 21-year-old Boynton Beach man said they are struggling to cope with what they say is a great loss for family and friends.

Genoune’s best friend, David Kaplan, was at Genoune’s home Monday afternoon helping to comfort his family.

“I was in denial for a long time,” he said. “I don’t understand how something so bad can happen to such good people.”

Genoune lost his life Sunday during a boating trip in Miami-Dade County.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission said Genoune and two other people were thrown from the boat into the water when it made a sudden, sharp turn.

Two of the occupants were recovered by nearby Good Samaritans. Genoune was later found dead.

“I just got a phone call,” Sheer Genoune said.

Sheer Genoune is the victim’s little sister. She said he worked as a captain and owned the company Dripped Out Fishing. Their passions were commemorated on social networks.

“If I could describe it in a few words, it’s magnetic, hilarious and just a ray of sunshine,” he said. “There is not a single person who has had a mediocre relationship with him.”

His family believes he was doing what he loves and it is that spirit that reminds them of the reasons why they smile despite the pain.

“I’ve never lost anyone this way,” Kaplan said. “He was my best friend; “He was everything to me.”

“It’s definitely giving me strength, because it’s probably the hardest thing I’ll ever have to go through,” Sheer Genoune said. “But I know that he is with me and gives me the strength to take care of my family.”

The couple plans to continue promoting their business and sharing their love of being on the water with the world.

Donations are being accepted on behalf of the family to help cover funeral expenses. To contribute, Click here.