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UPDATE: ‘Bau Bau Gene’ put to rest @ sea

- Jolly son of the Virgin Islands Gene S. ‘Bau Bau Gene’ Maduro laid to rest in the blue waters off Norman Island
Friends and family of Gene S. 'Bau Bau Gene' Maduro said their final goodbyes today April 25, 2015 as he was laid to rest at sea. Photo: VINO
Prominent local businessman and landlord Gene Maduro aka ‘Bau Bau Gene’ passed away at Peebles Hospital on April 1, 2015. Photo: Facebook
Prominent local businessman and landlord Gene Maduro aka ‘Bau Bau Gene’ passed away at Peebles Hospital on April 1, 2015. Photo: Facebook
Hundreds of persons came out to bid final farewell to the late prominent businessman Gene S. 'Bau Bau Gene' Maduro at a service held at the Multi-Purpose Sports Complex today, April 25, 2015. Photo: VINO
Hundreds of persons came out to bid final farewell to the late prominent businessman Gene S. 'Bau Bau Gene' Maduro at a service held at the Multi-Purpose Sports Complex today, April 25, 2015. Photo: VINO
Officiating Pastor Robert Wright described Maduro as someone who had a love for people and who wanted nothing but the best for his country. He impressed upon the crowd that it took a man such as Bau Bau Gene to pull such a mammoth attendance, meaning that he would have touched the lives of many during his life. Photo: VINO
Officiating Pastor Robert Wright described Maduro as someone who had a love for people and who wanted nothing but the best for his country. He impressed upon the crowd that it took a man such as Bau Bau Gene to pull such a mammoth attendance, meaning that he would have touched the lives of many during his life. Photo: VINO
The brightly-coloured casket bearing the body of the late Gene S. Madurp aka Bau Bau Gene. Photo: VINO
The brightly-coloured casket bearing the body of the late Gene S. Madurp aka Bau Bau Gene. Photo: VINO
Gene S. Maduro was loved by many as indicated by the numerous persons who attended his funeral. Photo; VINO
Gene S. Maduro was loved by many as indicated by the numerous persons who attended his funeral. Photo; VINO
Relatives weep at the funeral service for Mr Gene S. Maduro aka Bau Bau Gene at the Multi-Purpose Sports Complex on April 25, 2015. Photo: VINO
Relatives weep at the funeral service for Mr Gene S. Maduro aka Bau Bau Gene at the Multi-Purpose Sports Complex on April 25, 2015. Photo: VINO
Pallbearers taking the casket with the body of Mr Gene S. 'Bau Bau Gene' Maduro out of the Multi-Purpose Sports Complex. Photo: VINO
Pallbearers taking the casket with the body of Mr Gene S. 'Bau Bau Gene' Maduro out of the Multi-Purpose Sports Complex. Photo: VINO
Premier Dr The Honourable D. Orlando Smith (right) and First lady Mrs Lorna G. Smith at the funeral of Mr Gene S. Maduro. Left is Minister for Health and Social Development Hon. Ronnie W. Skelton. Sitting in second row are, from right: Former Deputy Premier Dancia Penn-Sallah QC, former Territorial At Large representative Keith L. Flax, Hon Marlon A. Penn (R8) and Hon Delores Christopher (R5). Photo: VINO
Premier Dr The Honourable D. Orlando Smith (right) and First lady Mrs Lorna G. Smith at the funeral of Mr Gene S. Maduro. Left is Minister for Health and Social Development Hon. Ronnie W. Skelton. Sitting in second row are, from right: Former Deputy Premier Dancia Penn-Sallah QC, former Territorial At Large representative Keith L. Flax, Hon Marlon A. Penn (R8) and Hon Delores Christopher (R5). Photo: VINO
Former 5th District Representative Mr Elvis 'Juggy' Harrigan was among the many persons at the funeral of Gene S. Maduro on April 25, 2015. Photo: VINO
Former 5th District Representative Mr Elvis 'Juggy' Harrigan was among the many persons at the funeral of Gene S. Maduro on April 25, 2015. Photo: VINO
Mr Elton L. 'All Out' Sprauve and his wife Mrs Grethlyn Sprauve at the funeral of Gene S. 'Bau Bau Gene' Maduro. Photo: VINO
Mr Elton L. 'All Out' Sprauve and his wife Mrs Grethlyn Sprauve at the funeral of Gene S. 'Bau Bau Gene' Maduro. Photo: VINO
The late prominent businessman Mr Gene S. Maduro aka Bau Bau Gene about to be taken for his final boat ride. Photo: Team of Reporters
The late prominent businessman Mr Gene S. Maduro aka Bau Bau Gene about to be taken for his final boat ride. Photo: Team of Reporters
The late Mr Gene S. Maduro aka Bau Bau Gene had a passion for boats and loved the sea. Photo: Team of Reporters
The late Mr Gene S. Maduro aka Bau Bau Gene had a passion for boats and loved the sea. Photo: Team of Reporters
ROAD TOWN, Tortola, VI - Friends and family of Gene S. 'Bau Bau Gene' Maduro said their final goodbyes today April 25, 2015 as he was laid to rest at sea.

The interment took place following a home going service celebrating Maduro's life at the Multi-Purpose Sports Complex earlier today.

Hundreds turned out to bid farewell to the man they knew so well, and who was said to have the ability to fix anything.

Officiating Pastor Robert Wright described Maduro as someone who had a love for people and who wanted nothing but the best for his country. He impressed upon the crowd that it took a man such as Bau Bau Gene to pull such a mammoth attendance, meaning that he would have touched the lives of many during his life.

In the tributes, Bau Bau Gene was described as a community minded person who used to give free backhoe and trucking services by cleaning up rocks and  drains after every flood and hurricane. He played Santa Claus at Christmas time for a number of years and sponsored softball teams from the Baugher’s Bay area.

He was also a member of the Four Strung fungi band.

The businessman was also a sponsor of the Caribbean Ecstasy Dance Band of Virgin Gorda. He almost singlehandedly created the Little Sandy Beach at the foot of Jean Hill, unofficially called Bau Bau Gene Beach.

Among those in attendance were Premier Dr The Honourable D. Orlando Smith, Minister for Education and Culture Honourable Myron V. Walwyn, Minister for Communications and Works Honourable Mark H. Vanterpool, Opposition member Honourable J. Alvin Christopher (R2), Honourable Delores Christopher (R5), territorial member of the House of Assembly Honourable Archibald C. Christian, among others.

In addition there were many well-wishers as Bau Bau Gene had touched the lives of many persons through his profession and his philosophy of helping others along the way.

Following the ceremony, which concluded shortly before midday today, the family had chartered two boats to take family and friends out to the South Drop that falls 12,000 feet to the Caribbean Sea floor, some five miles off Peter Island and Normal Island. Following a moment of reflection, the casket bearing the earthly remains of Bau Bau Gene was lowered into the water, signalling the end of one journey and the beginning of another for the man loved and respected by so many and who loved the sea.

Gene S. ‘Bau Bau Gene’ Maduro is survived by his father Julian Maduro and step mother Ethel Maduro, sons Genero Maduro, Geno Maduro and Eugene Maduro; daughters Jeanette Madoo, Shameka Durante, Gaelle Maduro, Krystle Maduro and Nicola Maduro and many others.

See story published April 2, 2015

Local businessman & landlord Gene ‘Bau Bau Gene’ Maduro passes!

Prominent local businessman and landlord Gene Maduro aka ‘Bau bau Gene’ died at Peebles Hospital around 10:00pm last night, Wednesday April 1, 2015.

The cause of death is unknown to this newsroom at this time.

Mr Maduro, an outspoken resident on social and political issues, passed away at the age of 62. Earlier yesterday afternoon there was a public appeal for blood while he was being treated at Peebles Hospital.

Our newsroom will bring you more details once they become available.

On behalf of the Board of Directors, Management and Staff of Advance Marketing and Professional Services, the parent company of VINO, we express sincere condolences to the Maduro family.

59 Responses to “UPDATE: ‘Bau Bau Gene’ put to rest @ sea”

  • kids (02/04/2015, 05:32) Like (28) Dislike (1) Reply
    Prayers goes out the family
  • chad (02/04/2015, 06:00) Like (20) Dislike (1) Reply
    My boy gone I Going miss u man... this I can't believe. ..
  • jonno (02/04/2015, 07:12) Like (40) Dislike (1) Reply
    Known him a long time, a very nice guy. Condolences to the family. Let's hope that now they officially name the Bau Bau Gene Beach in Baughers Bay
    • Sixela (02/04/2015, 18:32) Like (9) Dislike (1) Reply
      It is already called that since he made it, hope a sign is put up in his memory
  • ... (02/04/2015, 07:48) Like (10) Dislike (0) Reply
    Oh no rip
  • Scary Mary (02/04/2015, 07:48) Like (12) Dislike (1) Reply
    I am so sorry to hear this tragic news. Rest well my friend. You will be sorely missed.
  • Girls mama (02/04/2015, 07:51) Like (13) Dislike (1) Reply
    @jonno, I so hope they do. He was one of the very first friends we made we moved to BVI two decades ago. He was practically family and we shall all surely miss him dearly. R.I.P Gene.
  • Gambler (02/04/2015, 07:59) Like (7) Dislike (1) Reply
    my prayers go out to his family he was truly one of a kind
  • Laura (02/04/2015, 08:18) Like (12) Dislike (0) Reply
    A sad farewell to a funny and loving man. You and the late Skeleton always had a good conversation towards politics, family , your love of boats and money. You both shared personal and great advise with me and I shall cherish those fond times of laughter. Rest is peace with the memories of your love of sailing and the like:( Condolences to the family
  • ? (02/04/2015, 08:18) Like (9) Dislike (1) Reply
    Such a shame. Bau Bau Gene was a great guy. Prayers to the family.
  • .......... (02/04/2015, 08:25) Like (2) Dislike (12) Reply
    Vino u does have everything r i p gene
  • grace (02/04/2015, 09:08) Like (12) Dislike (11) Reply
    my condolences ,, that is why we have to live for God because we don't no when the spirit of death will knot our door and if we are not covered with the blood of jesus he will enter in,, i am so sorryful to hear that another soul have perish ,,
    • AN (02/04/2015, 11:27) Like (7) Dislike (4) Reply
      @Grace..,,,hmmm may his Soul Rest In Peace! I don't know how.you know his soul has.perish. smh...,,May GOD have mercy on US ALL!
      • @AN (02/04/2015, 12:36) Like (10) Dislike (2) Reply
        I don't think grace meant that his soul perished as in no resurrection for him. I originally thought that but reading it over, I now think grace meant another person has died; in other words, grace would have preferred he not die at all.
    • @grass (02/04/2015, 12:56) Like (1) Dislike (7) Reply
      U sound so stupid....
    • the rock (26/04/2015, 02:25) Like (3) Dislike (0) Reply
      grace, people like u make me sick..when bauba gene pass u by and head for the golden gates and u cant follow him what a day that would be!
  • Butch and Evie (02/04/2015, 09:13) Like (8) Dislike (0) Reply
    Bau Bau Gene, you will be greatly missed! We enjoyed our time with you and your family and will live on in our prayers. Rest in peace my friend.
  • RIP Gene (02/04/2015, 09:28) Like (7) Dislike (2) Reply
    sad to hear and my condolences to the maduro family especially Nadine....
    RIP Bau Bau Gene
  • death (02/04/2015, 09:41) Like (5) Dislike (2) Reply
    Death is a funny thing. No mortal man can overpower. No mortal man can out run.

    The living know that they will die, but the dead know nothing.
  • bay yute (02/04/2015, 09:48) Like (11) Dislike (0) Reply
    This is so sad to wake up this morning and read this. Baa b jean was a friend to everyone stay strong to his family!
  • Guest (02/04/2015, 09:54) Like (14) Dislike (0) Reply
    Just yesterday while waiting in the bank's drive-thru I was thinking to myself (don't know why) that death has no respect of persons, that we have to live for Christ not ourselves and asked myself am I really living totally and completely for him.

    We all have work today, it's a daily process but let's take every waking moment as a blessing and in return give God all the glory and honour.

    To the family of Bau Bau Gene, I pray the good Lord provides you with comfort, memories, and peace in knowing he passed doing what he loved.
  • wize up (02/04/2015, 09:59) Like (22) Dislike (1) Reply
    a great BV Islander: a champion for good causes
  • Mi Amor (02/04/2015, 10:13) Like (12) Dislike (1) Reply
    I am so shocked to hear this news and can only send my love and prayers to his immediate and extended family. This was a remarkable man and had such a Big Hear and Big voice..one could always hear Bau Bau Gene before one met him and he made everyone smile..
    He has sailed from this life to the next, May God wrap him in His loving and compassionate arms and May his soul rest in peace. Amen. Fondest Regards Eileen and staff.
  • Ken and Donna (02/04/2015, 10:30) Like (20) Dislike (0) Reply
    RIP Bau Bau Gene. We will always remember you in our hearts. We have some of the best memories because of you. You were always very generous to let us come stay and play. Not to mention all of the "rum". We will miss you my friend.
  • qc (02/04/2015, 10:47) Like (11) Dislike (0) Reply
    what a big lost for the BVI...i hope his children stays strong in the name of jesus
  • ImanI (02/04/2015, 11:27) Like (24) Dislike (1) Reply
    I was in total shock this morning when I read this news. Gene was a great man and one who enjoy life in whatever way he can. May your soul rest in eternal peace. Condolences to his children and entire family circle. Rest on my brother. Gone but will not be forgotten
  • Condolences (02/04/2015, 11:34) Like (10) Dislike (0) Reply
    Julian, Benson, Nadine and Shirley...my condolences and heartfelt sadness for your loss...thinking of you...
  • Vision (02/04/2015, 12:30) Like (5) Dislike (10) Reply
    our hospital is a mess still
  • Oscar Da Breo (02/04/2015, 14:35) Like (13) Dislike (0) Reply
    My condolences to the Maduro family. He will be truly missed.
  • zoe (02/04/2015, 17:03) Like (4) Dislike (0) Reply
    Rip capt
  • Cal (02/04/2015, 17:21) Like (6) Dislike (0) Reply
    One of the friendliest local I ever met. Rest in peace sir, it was a pleasure knowing you.
  • farmer brown (02/04/2015, 17:57) Like (4) Dislike (0) Reply
    Rip cuz
  • John (02/04/2015, 18:10) Like (2) Dislike (0) Reply
    shocking news r.i.p gene
  • Sixela (02/04/2015, 18:31) Like (3) Dislike (0) Reply
    Miss you already!!!!
  • gkefkkdakxq (03/04/2015, 00:40) Like (2) Dislike (1) Reply
    I cry when i heard this
  • Mr.Kool (03/04/2015, 14:24) Like (2) Dislike (0) Reply
    It is with deep sadness that I extend my heartfelt condolences to the family of the late Gene Maduro affectionately known as "Bau Bau Gene". I have known Gene since the mid 70s and he has been consistent up to his death. He was the one person that I've me to give so much of himself to anyone and never expect anything in return. This is one time when words would be in short supply should someone try to describe Bau Bau Gene. He will surely be missed. May the Lord give the family the strength to remain strong in this most difficult time. RIP in peace my friend.
  • un (03/04/2015, 14:39) Like (2) Dislike (0) Reply
    Ohhh. Boy..a good man has passed
  • Fathiema Ramsarran (03/04/2015, 20:10) Like (1) Dislike (1) Reply
    A Great friend you are..... RIP my friend "Bau Bau Gene", just here remembering ......
  • onlooker (04/04/2015, 11:54) Like (2) Dislike (0) Reply
    There was never a dull moment with Bau Bau Gene around. He will be greatly missed. My condolences to his family and the wider BVI Community.May his soul Rest In Peace.
  • friend (05/04/2015, 07:09) Like (2) Dislike (0) Reply
    and it was just Tuesday I last saw you, RIP my old friend, you will definitely be missed
  • jj (06/04/2015, 17:41) Like (18) Dislike (1) Reply
    he was one of the best guys who I ever came across in the bvi may u rest in peace. AND PLEASE BUILD A BLOOD BANK U ALL CANNOT WAIT UNTILL THERE IS AN ACCIDENT TO ASK FOR BLOOD THAT CANNOT WORK OR ELSE EVERY ONE WHO GETS INTO A TRAGEDY LIKE THAT WILL DIE PLEASE START NOW AND STOP WASTING TIME
    • AN (27/04/2015, 07:54) Like (1) Dislike (0) Reply
      I totally agree with you. The hospital' s administration needs to reassess their quality assurance and patient care plans in avoiding such re-occurrences . Can't wait for an emergency to look for supply. I am also aware of a.call.going out for blood just last week. Come on Peebles!
  • Farewell (25/04/2015, 19:36) Like (6) Dislike (1) Reply
    This man made you feel welcome at all times. He treated you fairly regardless to where you from. Sadly these kinda people are leaving us too fast. Fair sailing captain!!!!
  • huh (26/04/2015, 00:39) Like (4) Dislike (18) Reply
    I am going to stop eat fish.
    • Bau Bau Gene Friend (26/04/2015, 07:19) Like (6) Dislike (1) Reply
      Go ahead shyte for brains. You had to come blog pi$$
    • Gaelle (26/04/2015, 08:21) Like (22) Dislike (0) Reply
      My father was not the first person nor will be the last person to be buried at sea so good luck with that..................chuppes.
  • Hail (26/04/2015, 10:13) Like (5) Dislike (6) Reply
    In the midst of the funeral service the Chinese Minister texting to China... what a ting!!!
    • Looking on (26/04/2015, 12:03) Like (3) Dislike (3) Reply
      The Minister don't even know what the Pastor say in the service, them always on them phone.
  • zzzzzzzzzzzzz (26/04/2015, 12:39) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply
    he will be missed very much
  • Impossible (26/04/2015, 20:36) Like (12) Dislike (6) Reply
    Rip to great man

    Nowwwwww it's that legal! A burial at sea is fine but not like that , not the whole coffin with the body in it! How in heavens and earth the government allow that. I know you cremate the body and spread his /her ashes at sea yes!!!!! But not the body in the coffin! That is neither safe or sanitary . Aren't we suppose to be protecting the Virgin Islands water . What has our land come to . I liked and respected bau bau gene as much as the other man did but I don't think what was done is right ! It's ridiculous and I'm still in awe !
    • Real (26/04/2015, 23:02) Like (3) Dislike (2) Reply
      You took the words right out of my mouth. He was not the first to be buried at sea and won't be the last but I just want to know if this is legal/safe for our oceans/sanitary. What are the governments thoughts? With the coffin there it adds more pollution than we already have. RIP to gene I knew him a long time just wanted to know more about being buried at sea.
  • Chick (26/04/2015, 21:32) Like (1) Dislike (5) Reply
    What is the wrong with some of you people.When since burying at sea become a big Issue. Is he the only person buried at.Sea. why wait now at this time to comment there was other burials at.sea.Gosh man.
  • Struppes (27/04/2015, 07:01) Like (2) Dislike (3) Reply

    Bunch of j@ck@$$3$.. Ayo does make me sick with these asinine comments. Now what kind of bs bout sanitary.. Some ayo need to travel and see what's happening in the world around you. Education is key. Respect the family during this time of grief. Come on now man.

  • very concern (27/04/2015, 07:47) Like (5) Dislike (1) Reply
    Sea burial is legal but you have to do it in the right way in this case it wasn't done since the funeral home did not use a sea burial casket they should have use a sealer casket it was very embarrassing to see the casket open that is something the ministry of health have to look into it is a serious situation every law was broken there I went to sea burials and never a body throw out that they all were done with dignity,
  • local man (27/04/2015, 11:14) Like (1) Dislike (0) Reply
    the funeral house didn't go a great job, the coffin should have been trap down outside,plus the weights was all wrongs in it seem like it was foot heavy.secondly just the family should know where the body was sink. rip boss
  • hard living (27/04/2015, 14:43) Like (3) Dislike (2) Reply
    My mother and uncle buried at sea right out there with Mr Maduro.The fish could only taste sweeter.The only pollution is your bad mind blogging
  • very very sad (27/04/2015, 20:03) Like (1) Dislike (0) Reply
    Uncle, I did not get to know you but want to say I am very very sad to hear of your passing. R.I.P. uncle.


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