Czech Billionaire with strong ties to VG dies in helicopter crash
Czech Republic billionaire and long-time Virgin Gorda resident, Petr Kellner was killed in a helicopter crash in Alaska on Saturday.
PPF Group, the investment company that Kellner co-founded, confirmed his death in a statement on Monday.
Four others were killed in the accident. It’s understood that the group was on a skilling trip in the Alaska Mountains.
The 56-year-old lived on Virgin Gorda for years and operated the Sugarcane Restaurant in Nail Bay. He also played a pivotal role in Virgin Gorda’s recovery after the 2017 hurricanes.
The billionaire who has a net worth of $15.7 billion is survived by his wife and four children.
Representative of the Ninth District, Vincent Wheatley said the Virgin Gorda community has lost a great friend.
“Though a very private person, Mr Kellner had a heart of gold and a man of great compassion. He was easy going and could often be seen just hanging out. He will surely be missed. Sincere condolences to his family on behalf of myself and the entire Virgin Gorda community. May his soul rest in peace,” Wheatley said.
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This is so sad to read. May the Almighty give his family and friends strength during this time.
Thank you for your assistance to VG during the hurricanes. Rest in Peace!
Very sad news. But surely he wasn’t on a skiing trip when died. He was on a helicopter trip.
Heliskiing for snowboarding :/
This man brought as many generators as he could in PR after Irma, put them on his plane, and gave all away to his impacted, island neighbors. Deepest condolences to his family. Your father and husband will be missed.
– VG
He was a good man
That all I want to know …
Follow him through that land of comfort and peace….amen
A great man that helped many and created many jobs here in VG
A great and genuine generous man, may his soul RIP.
Sad and will be well miss. Sympathy goes out to family and friends.
This man was a one of a kind. He saw the beauty of North Sound and wanted to preserve it for everyone (not just make it a personal playground). The fabulous work done at Saba Rock is incredible. He not only raised the bar for luxury, he showed others how to do things as a gentleman and treat all people with respect.
What a great lose for our islands. He will be missed but never forgotten (at least not by me)