The Regional District of Nanaimo is developing a plan for operating Descanso Bay Regional Park on Gabriola after its longtime caretaker recently died.
Jim Demler was the campground operator since the park’s opening in 2002.
“Our thoughts go out to Jim’s family and loved ones,” said Howard Houle, RDN director for Gabriola and surrounding islands. “Jim was well-known and well-loved here on Gabriola. He was the face of Descanso Bay Regional Park for many years and took great pride in his job. He will be sorely missed.”
Demler had been a fixture at the park even before it was a park. He was caretaker of the site when it was owned and managed by Coastal Community Credit Union. Demler also served his community in other ways over the years including as Fire Chief in the early ’90s.
Updates on the park plan will be posted at www.rdn.bc.ca/parks when it is available.