Junior Maynard Dill’s 12-year leadership of the electricians’ union has been commended by Belco as a model for labour relations.

In the wake of Mr Dill’s death, at the age of 61, the company issued a tribute to his 32-year career with the utility, as well as his “larger than life personality”.

“During his tenure with the Electricity Supply Trade Union, Maynard worked diligently to represent his members well, while nurturing a healthy working relationship with Belco’s management team,” the statement read.

“Many, in fact, have said that during his 12-year tenure as its president, the ESTU was Bermuda’s example of what could be possible when unions and management are able to sustain a healthy working relationship.”

Mr Dill, who was chairman of the Progressive Labour Party, joined Belco in 1984 and steadily climbed the ranks.

“Maynard’s work ethic, his willingness and ability to develop himself and others and his commitment to doing his role to the best of his ability have been extolled in performance reviews consistently dating back to 1985,” the statement said.

“For example, ‘I would like to have placed on record, that this man is far above the average operator in his willingness, ability and knowledge of the East Power Station, and when required is invaluable.’ ”

Mr Dill was appointed switchboard operator in 1989, relief head operator in 1991, and head operator in 1998, becoming a foreman of plant operations in 2005. His dedication won him awards over the years, including a gold award in December 2014 for his commitment during Hurricane Fay.

Offering condolences to his wife Wilma, children and loved ones, the statement closed: “Maynard will be missed, but not forgotten.”