Grant Skinner, the founder of plant and equipment agency Core Underwriting, has died of a sudden heart attack at the age of 42.

Brisbane-based Mr Skinner was a well-known and popular character within the industry, and his funeral took place on Friday.

Friend Russell Coutts, an Insurance Advisernet authorised representative, told insuranceNEWS.com.au Mr Skinner spent his younger years as a broker and underwriter.

Prior to setting up Core, Mr Skinner had worked with NTI, Lumley, CGU and Aon.

“He spent two years in underground mining as a plant operator where he hatched his plan to be an underwriter of mobile plant and equipment, having gained hands-on experience in this field,” Mr Coutts said.

“Grant built a successful Brisbane-based underwriting agency, Core Underwriting. He built great working relationships with brokers around Australia and also with his London security.

“Grant will be remembered by his colleagues and friends as an engaging character, who loved a good story and to make others laugh.”

Mr Skinner is survived by ex-wife Rebecca and three children aged 20, 17 and 15.