Dad dies after horrifying cruise ship accident while celebrating his son's wedding

Steve Junker was aboard the Sun Princess on Aug. 16 when he fell and was later found face down and unresponsive in a pool, according to a GoFundMe page organized by his family.

Princess Cruises confirmed Junker's recent death in a statement to Fox News Digital.

"We are deeply saddened by the passing of our guest and extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones during this extraordinarily difficult time," the cruise line said.

"The guest was attended to by the ship's medical team and subsequently transferred ashore for further care," the cruise line said.

He was transported by an Italian Coast Guard boat to a hospital in Naples, where he was admitted to the intensive care unit, according to the fundraiser.

His family said the procedure was successful, though his spinal cord injury remained severe.

"We are working through the medical, logistical and financial challenges of arranging appropriate medical transport and getting him to a hospital in the United States," the family wrote before his death.

He was ultimately taken to Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, on Aug. 23 for additional medical treatment, according to reports. 

"Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for every prayer, message, phone call, kind thought, and offer of support," the family wrote.

Junker's church remembered him for his faith and the impact he had on those around him following his death.

"Pastor Steve was a wonderful person, loved by many, and had a great impact on many people through his faith," Chippewa Lutheran Church wrote in a Facebook post.

The church also shared a tribute from Nathaniel Junker, Steve Junker's son, who sang worship songs inspired by his father. 

Fox News Digital reached out to Junker's family for comment.

A mourner wrote on Facebook, "May God bring comfort for all who loved and care for Pastor Steve Junker. I'm so sorry for your loss."

An obituary for the pastor noted that he worked as a pharmacist before answering the call to ministry. He left behind a wife, five children and their spouses, a grandchild and many other family members.