After suffering a stroke last month of the coast of Alaska, USA Today reports that Capt. Phil Harris of the television show Deadliest Catch has passed away due to complications.  He was 53 years old.

“Discovery mourns the loss of dear friend and colleague Captain Phil Harris. He was more than someone on our television screen. Phil was a devoted father and loyal friend to all who knew him,” said a statement from the network . “We will miss his straightforward honesty, wicked sense of humor and enormous heart.”

A statement from his sons said, ”It is with great sadness that we say goodbye to our dad — Captain Phil Harris.  Dad has always been a fighter and continued to be until the end.”

We’ll always know Harris as the grizzled, tattooed, straight talking captain of the “Cornelia Marie”.  Even though his hometown was Seattle, he was on the sea for over 30 years of which he captained the “Cornelia Marie” for more than 15.  He was known as a generous and friendly guy with a wicked sense of humor.  While home on the off season, Harris handmade bird feeders and spent a lot of time riding around with friends on his Harley.  He shared a passion for cars with his sons, but preferred American made.

We will miss you Captain Phil Harris.  Sail on great sir.