Three women - Jackie Boisa, Carol Boisa and a family friend identified as Tondra - remained missing Wednesday evening after the Volare, a cabin cruiser carrying 20 people and a dog, overturned Tuesday during an outing to spread a loved one's ashes.
The tragedy claimed the life of 79-year-old Clifford Boisa, whose family said leaves behind a legacy of love, guidance and service.
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"Our family is devastated," relatives said in a statement.
As family members remembered Boisa as a beloved brother, mentor and role model, former colleagues also honored his legacy.
The Sutter County Sheriff's Office said Boisa served as a reserve deputy from 1987 to 2001 and praised his years of dedication to public safety.
In a statement, Sheriff Brandon Barnes and department personnel honored the retired reserve deputy following news of his death.
They extended their condolences to the Boisa family and the loved ones of everyone affected by the tragedy, saying Boisa's commitment to the community "will not be forgotten."
Family members said everyone aboard the Stockton-based boat was family or friends, including the captain.
As relatives struggled to process the loss and uncertainty, Clifford Boisa's brother, John Boisa, reflected on the impact his brother had on his life.
"I loved Clifford with all of my heart," John Boisa said. "In addition to being a brother, he was a mentor and role model to me growing up. I cherished him, and much of the person I am was formed by his example. The loss of him is a crushing anguish."
The family's grief was compounded Wednesday evening when the Coast Guard announced it was suspending search efforts after more than 24 hours of intensive operations.
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A photograph shared with ABC7 News shows Clifford Boisa alongside his wife, Jackie Boisa, who remains among those missing.
According to the Coast Guard, the boat departed the St. Francis Yacht Club on Tuesday morning and traveled to Angel Island.
At some point during the afternoon, the vessel appeared to take a wave, lose stability and quickly roll over.
"Despite that extensive effort we have been unsuccessful in locating any survivors in the search area," a Coast Guard official said.
In a statement, family members thanked the agencies that searched for their loved ones.
"We thank all of the agencies who have dedicated countless hours in an effort to locate them," the family said.
For the Boisa family, the tragedy has left both profound loss and unanswered questions.
Their public statements focused on the man they knew as a beloved brother, mentor and role model, while they continue to await news about the three missing women.
San Francisco Mayor Daniel Lurie also offered condolences Wednesday and thanked first responders from San Francisco and other cities who participated in the search, describing the response as an "all hands on deck" effort.
As the search comes to an end, the words of Clifford Boisa's brother underscore the family's heartbreak.
"I loved Clifford with all of my heart," John Boisa said. "The loss of him is a crushing anguish."