We are so very sad about Eric's passing. He had recently joined our Board of Directors after many years of volunteer work adding significant impact to the Guardians' mission to protect the quality of Martin County life for all our residents. We are especially sad as he was so highly qualified, and it is a tragic loss for the entire community.

Born in Stoneham, Massachusetts, Eric spent his early years in Jupiter, Florida, before settling in the Hobe Sound community more than 33 years ago—a place he would come to cherish, invest in, and help shape over the course of his life.

Eric was a dedicated entrepreneur and the proud owner of Jupiter Island Pools. His passion for business was matched only by his devotion to service. He was deeply woven into the fabric of Hobe Sound, giving generously of his time, energy, and heart. Eric was a President’s Council Member of the Hobe Sound Chamber of Commerce and was the longest-serving member of the Hobe Sound Community Chest, an organization he cared deeply about and supported for decades. In recognition of his longstanding commitment, he was honored with the prestigious Pelican Award (twice) from the Hobe Sound Chamber. He not only served on the Community Chest but also became the beloved host of its annual Agency Tour. For years, Eric led the tour from the front of the bus with his signature energy, humor, and purpose—something people looked forward to every year. In recognition of his exceptional dedication, the Community Chest made a rare and meaningful decision: its annual Nonprofit of the Year Award will now be permanently renamed The Eric T. Wesel Award, honoring the lasting impact of his service and legacy.

Throughout his life, Eric supported countless nonprofit organizations—so many that it would be impossible to list them all. Among the causes closest to him were the Hobe Sound Child Care Center, Early Learning Center, Banner Lake Academy, and the Boys & Girls Clubs. If there was a way to help, Eric was there—quietly, consistently, and wholeheartedly. Eric’s entrepreneurial spirit extended far beyond his primary business. He was widely regarded as a serial entrepreneur, with several residential rental properties and commercial warehouses that he managed with his signature professionalism and care. He also gave his time as a mentor at South Fork High School for four years, proudly guiding students as they planned for their futures.

Family was at the center of Eric’s world. He was actively involved in every chapter of his daughters’ lives, serving on the board of The Pine School and coaching his daughter’s soccer team with enthusiasm and pride. He found joy in uplifting young people—whether his own children or those in his community.

Eric was also involved in several civic and leadership groups, including Toastmasters, where he sharpened the public-speaking skills he used frequently in service to others. Eric also participated in Fork & Iron, a 60-member business group dedicated to sharing ideas, learning from one another, and discussing all things business-related. It was one of the many places where Eric’s insight, experience, and humor made him a valued voice. Additionally, he was honored to participate in the Guardians program, accompanying veterans on a memorable Honor Flight.

Beyond his accomplishments and service, Eric was a man of adventure. His boundless curiosity and love of exploration took him around the globe. He climbed Mount Kilimanjaro, rafted the Grand Canyon, skied and hiked through Switzerland, and traveled through New Zealand, Africa, Banff, Canada, Italy, Ecuador, and Argentina, among many other destinations. He even applied to be on The Amazing Race, a testament to his bold and adventurous spirit.

Eric especially loved the mountains. Whether hiking, biking, or simply breathing the crisp morning air, the mountains brought him peace. One of his favorite places was Blowing Rock, North Carolina, a spot he treasured and visited often with his family, making it the site of his final trip. He lived life fully—earning his scuba diving license and diving in Belize and St. Lucia, running several half marathons, and enjoying duck hunting trips with friends. Eric was the type of person who said yes to life, always eager for the next experience, the next challenge, the next adventure.

Eric is survived by his loving wife of 33 years, Laura, of Hobe Sound, FL; his daughters, Bianca and Olivia, also of Hobe Sound; his mother, Riet Wesel of Jupiter, FL; his father, Robert Wesel of Jupiter, FL; his brother, Kevin Wesel of Jupiter, FL; and his sister, Loraine Turner of Brookings, South Dakota. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, colleagues, and the countless lives he touched.