MARQUETTE — The leadership and staff of Trillium House, an eight-room hospice house in Marquette, are working to respond to flooding at the facility and the unexpected passing of executive director Pat Bray.

Five residents along with staff and caregivers were at the facility when flooding occurred the day before Thanksgiving. The flooding was the result of a facility-wide malfunction of its sprinkler system. Staff immediately responded and were able to safely evacuate and transport all residents to alternative living arrangements. Trillium staff is continuing to provide support.

Following the Thanksgiving weekend, Bray passed away unexpectedly at his home on Nov. 30. Bray had served as executive director for three years, since Trillium’s opening.

“Our hearts are heavy following the loss of our beloved executive director Pat Bray adding to the challenges faced by our residents, families and staff due to the flooding at the facility,” said Alicia Burgess, house manager and interim executive director, in a press release. “We are grateful to all who stepped up to help us care for our residents and provide support to our staff during this difficult time.

“Pat played a vital role in helping to make Trillium House possible and will be dearly missed,” Burgess said. “Our condolences go out to all of his family, friends and colleagues.”

Opening in 2018, the Trillium House is the first and only dedicated hospice facility to serve the central Upper Peninsula. Crews have completed cleanup and demolition of water-damaged areas in preparation for repairs. No permanent damage has been identified at this time, although needed repairs will be extensive throughout the facility.

Out of respect for staff, to allow for the orderly completion of repairs and to ensure that Trillium House will again be able to provide the same excellence of care, the facility will be closed for approximately two months. Individuals in need of hospice support are encouraged to contact Burgess at 906-869-3530.

Trillium House will continue to provide additional updates on its Facebook Page regarding its reopening as information is available.

Arrangements for Bray are being coordinated by the Canale-Tonella Funeral Home and Cremation Services.