Rafael Pizarro was found in a lock on the Rochdale to Manchester canal in Middleton, Rochdale while playing with friends on 6 June.
He was resuscitated on the towpath before being taken to hospital.
His family said: "Rafael had a big impact on his family and friends and was much loved and we will truly miss him."
Det Insp Kate Atton from Greater Manchester Police said: "Rafael's death is believed to be a tragic accident.
"I would urge people, especially children, to take care around the water and try not to swim anywhere other than supervised swimming pools."
A 13-year-old boy who fell into a Greater Manchester canal in a "tragic accident" has died, police said.