Gene Edward Barsaleau

We sadly announce the passing of Gene Edward Barsaleau on June 13, 2025. Gene would want to be remembered as “a kind, caring father, husband, person… and a pretty damn good guitar player.” He was born on May 31, 1952, at Fort LeJeune, NC to Eugene and Augusta (Possocco) Barsaleau, and was raised in Stafford, Connecticut, where he developed a lifelong love of outdoors and nature.

Gene became a Boy Scout, earned the rank of Eagle Scout, and later gave back as a Scoutmaster. A 1970 graduate of Stafford High School, Gene went on to become a mechanical engineer. He enjoyed a fulfilling career and the opportunity to travel the world through his work with MTI, eventually retiring in 2020. Music was a central part of Gene’s life ever since his father gave him a guitar at the age of 12. Over the next five decades, he played in many bands and eventually led his own Voodoo Night Train alongside close friends and a nephew he proudly taught to play.

Gene and Andrea first met in the 1980s and reunited in 2002. They were married on August 21, 2004, in the middle of a tropical storm. Together, they weathered life’s ups and downs, sharing many great adventures on their Harley, camping, attending concerts, traveling cross-country, enjoying good food, and sipping fine wine. They created a joyful life together in their beautiful home, embracing a laid-back lifestyle.

Gene will be deeply missed by his loving wife, Andrea Poirier; his mother, Augusta “Gussie” Barsaleau; his brother, Geoff; and his four children with his first wife, Susan Greene: Jeremy, Michael, Heather and her husband Justin, and Derek and his wife Hailey. He also leaves behind 13 grandchildren, 5½ great-grandchildren; his father-in-law, John Poirier; extended family including Suzanne, Kyle, John, Michael, and Melissa; many nieces and nephews; his little buddy George; a treasure trove of friends; and his extensive guitar collection.

He was predeceased by his father, Eugene Barsaleau; brother, Glenn; first wife Susan Greene: mother-in-law, Shirley Poirier; niece, Samantha Poirier; and many beloved pets.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to any pet recue of your choosing.

Those wishing to celebrate Gene's life are welcome to join us at their home on Friday June 27, 2025, from 4:00–9:00 PM.

New England Funeral & Cremation Center, 25 Mill Street, Springfield, MA has been entrusted with the arrangements. Please visit Gene’s memorial page at www.nefcc.net for expressions of sympathy.