A funeral for Toronto filmmaker Rob Stewart who died last week off the coast of Florida will be held in the city on Feb. 18.

Thanking people for their messages of love, support, encouragement and prayers, Stewart’s family said in a news release that the funeral and celebration of life will be open to “everyone who loved Rob.” More details will be released later.

Stewart, 37, went missing last Tuesday and his body was found three days later.

“We’d like to reiterate our profound appreciation and respect for the U.S. Coast Guard, the three levels of Canadian political officials who offered their assistance, and all of the many professionals and selfless volunteers who committed their time and resources in trying to bring our son and brother home safely,” the release read.

Stewart, best known for his documentary, Sharkwater, was in Florida to film a sequel, Sharkwater: Extinction. He was diving near the Queen of Nassau shipwreck in the Florida Keys, about 10 kilometres from the shore, when he slipped underwater.

“Our hearts are broken,” the release said. “While we are overcome with grief, we know in our hearts that Rob is at peace and that he would want us to continue his mission to save the sharks and the oceans, and to inspire the world to protect and nurture our planet. We are committed to realizing Rob’s goals and will not rest until the change he fought for tirelessly is achieved.”

A second celebration of life will be held in Los Angeles at a later date.

According to a media release from Planet in Focus, the Toronto District School Board is seeking suggestions to name the new elementary school being built near the city’s waterfront, and the group has nominated Stewart.