Family, friends reflect on life of MV Barima chief engineer

The life of MV Barima Chief Engineer Paul Ian Seepersaud was celebrated on Wednesday as relatives, friends and colleagues gathered to bid him a final farewell, remembering him as a humble, kind-hearted and cheerful individual whose impact will not be forgotten. Seepersaud, known to many as “Scooby Doo,” 44, of 70 Errols Ville, Vryman’s Erven, New Amsterdam, was among those who lost their lives when the MV Barima sank while travelling to Port Kaituma on July 18. His body was recovered two days later. Paul’s funeral service was held at the Wesleyan Church in New Amsterdam, where mourners reflected on the life he lived and the lasting impression he left on those around him. Delivering one of the tributes, Transport and Harbours Department employee Trevon Fraser recalled meeting Seepersaud while he was a trainee. Over the years, their working relationship developed into a close friendship. [NCN photo] ‘’On the day of the incident, I was suppose to go and replace Scooby, but Scooby said he gone make one more trip and I will take over. When I heard what happened, is like I happy I didn’t go, but still sad what happened because of how good Scooby was to everybody. And if he didn’t go, it would have been me, but God knows best,’’ Fraser stated. Several co-workers also paid tribute, describing Seepersaud as someone who made the workplace enjoyable and was always willing to share advice and encourage others. They credited him with helping many of them grow both personally and professionally. In the eulogy, Seepersaud’s brother-in-law, Rev. Wilfred Collins, described him as a devoted employee who earned the respect of his colleagues through his commitment and professionalism. Beyond his career, Rev. Collins said Seepersaud’s greatest joy was his four children. He noted that he worked tirelessly to provide for his family and was always ready to assist relatives and friends whenever they needed support. “One of the many things that we will miss is that every morning many of us will wake up to a simple ‘Good morning’ message from him. It was his way of reminding us that we are remembered, loved, and never alone. Those small gestures carried so much meaning and reflected the kind of man he was. He was a breath of fresh air to everyone he met,” Rev. Collins said. Speaking during the service, Seepersaud’s son, Adrian, revealed,” My father is, was, and would forever be a great man. I am sure he touched everyone’s hearts who knew him.’’ Government ministers, opposition representatives and regional officials were among those who attended the funeral service to pay their respects.