The spouse of Sooke’s incoming chief administrative officer died unexpectedly due to a sudden illness on Sunday.
According to a District of Lillooet press release, Kevin Taylor died at Lillooet Hospital and Health Centre.
His husband, Jeremy Denegar, was recently hired by the District of Sooke to become its new CAO.
“Jeremy and Kevin’s family and friends along with our community and district team have suffered a terrible loss,” said the Aug. 7 statement from Mayor Laurie Hopfl, council and staff.
“Kevin has been an inspiration to our team, he was loyal to Lillooet in wanting perfection to reign, seeking the highest standards in governance and his vision for our Main Street was stunning. He was honest, smart and professional in his work. He was quick-witted, fun and kind in his life. He will be greatly missed.”
The statement asked for privacy for Denegar and Taylor’s family.
Denegar and Taylor were hired in November 2019 at Lillooet, with Denegar as CAO and Taylor as the district’s corporate and development services director.
Denegar was also Esquimalt’s information technology manager from 2007 to 2013 and director of corporate services for Summerland for six years.
According to a district official, Denegar’s start date as Sooke CAO on Sept. 5 may be postponed.
