Community members in Poughkeepsie are remembering the late owner of popular venue The Chance as a "good guy" who was a father figure to many.

Frank Pallett died on Aug. 11 at 51 years old.

According to an obituary, the business owner died at Vassar Brothers Medical Center after a brief illness.

"To me, Frank is like a father to all of us and it feels like we lost a father,” says Vinnie Csaszar.

"It’s just sad to know that he's not around,” says musician Keith Williams. "Frank was a good dude, he really was.”

Pallett owned the Dutchess County theater since the mid-1990s.

For many bands, The Chance was their first chance to break into the music scene.

"He always worked with you. Very laid back. Very cool…Handshake deals. Look each other in the eye. And you don't see that, ever,” says Williams.

Keith Williams, with Tool tribute band Schism, says they got their start on the venue's stage in the early 2000s.

Many community members say Pallet's venue went beyond an electrifying atmosphere.

"The Chance complex to me represents more than just music and more than just a venue. For me, it's been a family,” says Csaszar.

Csaszar began performing at the popular venue at age 15, thanks to Pallett.

"It feels like we lost a father. It's very emotional. It’s very hard for me to talk about because I wouldn't be the person I am if it weren't for that building and that man,” says Csaszar.

Pallett leaves behind a wife, two daughters and family and friends.

According to a statement released by The Chance, “Calling hours will be held on Wednesday from 4-8 p.m. at the McHoul Funeral Home, Inc., 895 Route 82, Hopewell Junction. The Mass of Christian Burial will be offered on Thursday at 10 a.m. at St. Columba Church, 835 Route 82, Hopewell Junction followed by the interment in Fishkill Rural Cemetery.”