MANILA, Philippines – Top Rank, Inc. big boss Bob Arum and his family expressed their gratitude to the people who helped them get through the trying time of coping with the death of John Arum, the veteran promoter’s son.

John, 49, was found dead by a search helicopter at the 7,700-foot level of the 8,500-foot-high Storm King mountain in the North Cascades National Park in Washington State on Friday (Saturday in Manila).

In a statement posted on FanHouse.com, the Arum family thanked those who shared their concern during the tragic time.

“John was a very special person. A wonderful husband, son, brother and friend. John meant so much, to so many. He was so loved and we miss him already,” the family added.

They showed appreciation for the rescuers from the National Park Service, Chelan Mountain Rescue, Stehekin Community and King County Sheriff's Office for their “tireless efforts” in searching for the experienced mountaineer who went missing on a solo hiking trip.

“They refused to give up on their search for John despite the conditions, and they were a constant source of comfort and information to us. Their dedication to their mission was awe-inspiring and we will remember them for that forever,” the Arums said.

“And to everyone from around the world who has reached out to us with prayers and messages of support, please know you have helped sustain us during this most difficult time. You have touched our souls.”

The elder Arum was informed that his son was missing on Tuesday (Wednesday in Manila), shortly before the first press conference for the Pacquiao vs Antonio Margarito fight began in Los Angeles, California.

Pacquiao related that Arum was in tears when he comforted him over the phone. He even added that his promoter knew that John was dead even before his body was found.

“Ang kaniya, makita na lang ang anak niya. ‘Di pa nakita, alam na niya na patay na,” the Filipino boxing superstar said to reporters on Monday when he arrived in Manila following the conclusion of his media tour in the United States.

Arum skipped the New York and Texas legs of the Pacquiao-Margarito media tour to monitor the search and rescue operations for his son.

Pacquiao expressed his grief over John’s death especially since the Filipino boxing icon considers Bob as his second father. – With reports from Lem Satterfield, FanHouse.com and Dominic Almelor, ABS-CBN News