The marine industry is mourning the loss of longtime dealer advocate, consultant and dealership owner Noel Osborne, who passed away Aug. 7 at the age of 89.

Born in Chester Springs, Pennsylvania, Noel served in the U.S. Air Force, including a deployment to South Korea, before building a successful career in electronics, sales and management. His lifelong passion for boating began after an introduction to Sleek Craft boats and soon expanded into drag boat racing.

In 1976, Noel opened a retail boat dealership in Pennsylvania alongside his family, growing the business to four locations. He later moved to Florida and purchased Naples Boat Mart with his wife, Sandi. After selling the dealership to his son, Phil Osborne and daughter-in-law, Lisa Osborne, Noel dedicated the next chapter of his career to consulting and dealer education.

Throughout decades in the marine industry, Noel advised manufacturers and dealerships across North America, working with organizations including Yamaha Marine, Pursuit Boats, Correct Craft, Nautique and Four Winns. He also served as president of the Collier County Marine Trades Association and chaired an NMMA task force focused on uniting the recreational boating industry.

Most of all, Noel was known for his willingness to share his knowledge with others. His mentorship helped shape generations of marine industry professionals, leaving a legacy that continues through the dealerships, businesses and leaders he influenced throughout his career.

Noel is survived by his wife, Sandi; his children Phil Osborne, Susan Jernigan and Kimberly Kerlin; six grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren.

Reflections on Noel’s Legacy

“You always knew where Noel stood on an issue and his vast experience made him a skilled consultant and subject matter expert. He was an exceptionally hard worker who could rip into an idea without ripping into the person. It kept people coming back for more. I will miss being able to pick up the phone and call him ‘Great Oz’ — and that’s really who he was to me. A bigger than life smile, laugh and intellect. I am so grateful for his mentorship and friendship. He left a lasting impression on our industry and on me.” — Valerie Ziebron, President, VRZ Consulting

“I learned so much from Noel about the inner workings of a dealership during Yamaha University, several follow-up conversations and his presentations at industry conferences. He dedicated a large majority of his life to the marine industry and specifically to helping dealers get better. He will be missed.” — Matt Gruhn, President, MRAA