The Heartbreaking Death Of Below Deck Mediterranean Captain Mark Howard

The reality television world has lost one of their own. "Below Deck Mediterranean" Captain Mark Howard has died at age 65, according to TMZ. The outlet reports that Howard died in his Florida home sometime in the last week, and the cause of his death is currently unknown. TMZ also reports that a family friend had called Howard's death "sudden," and there aren't many details available at this time. He is survived by his wife, Susan.

Per his bio on Bravo, Howard was born and raised on a lake in Michigan, and had been a yacht captain for over 30 years. Howard's lengthy career as a yacht captain had taken him all over the world, including the South Pacific, Mediterranean, and the Caribbean. It's clear that Howard had a thirst for adventure throughout his life; in addition to his passion for boating and yachts, he was also a licensed helicopter pilot.

Howard starred on the first season of "Below Deck Med," which aired in 2016 (via IMDb). He appeared in 13 episodes of the hit reality show, and was known for his professional and hardworking attitude, as well as what he considered the golden rule of yachting: "The guest is always right."

While the mysterious circumstances surrounding Captain Mark Howard's death have yet to be revealed, fans of "Below Deck Mediterranean" took to social media to issue their condolences to Howard's friends, family, and former crew members, with many of them recalling how nice and sweet the captain was. "He was sooooo sweet!!! What happened? RIP Capt. and may God bless and be with your family," one Twitter fan wrote, while another echoed that sentiment, writing, "Oh no [pleading face, broken heart] how incredibly sad. Really liked him on 'Below Deck.' Thoughts and love to his family and friends . RIP Captain Mark" (via Twitter).

"Below Deck Med" alum Tiffany Jones Copeland also tweeted out her condolences upon hearing the news of Howard's death, writing alongside two photos, "RIP Captain Mark Howard. You were a joy to be around." She added in a second tweet, "I don't have many details at this time, but he passed away yesterday."