Heartfelt tributes to Whitehaven's dockmaster who has died aged 39

Karl White, 39, from Whitehaven, who had worked at the town’s marina for over a decade, died on September 23.

The Wave sculpture on Whitehaven Harbour was illuminated in his honour last week. Marina staff also gathered to light candles in his memory.

The Wave on Whitehaven Harbour was lit up in honour of Karl White (Image: Whitehaven Marina Ltd)

A tribute from Karl’s family said: “We have been devastated with the sudden loss of Karl, who was such a much loved son, brother and uncle.

“We have been overwhelmed with the outreach of support from the local community, hearing how he supported and helped others has been a comfort to us all.

“He has been described by many over the past few weeks as kind, considerate, genuine and funny, this is an accurate reflection of his beautiful character. We have been especially touched by the support and tributes made by his work colleagues at the Marina.

Karl pictured with hid Dad Trevor White and Granda Ken White (Image: Family handout)

“We would also like to pay special thanks to our close family and friends for their unwavering support during this devastating time. Karl will live on in the hearts of those who loved him.”

A statement from Whitehaven Marina Ltd said: “We are deeply saddened to lose a member of the Whitehaven Marina team. Karl worked at the marina for over 10 years first as a lockkeeper and then as a dockmaster.

“He was well known and extremely loved by his colleagues and all of his customers. Karl lived his life with kindness and generosity and nothing was ever too much trouble. He leaves a huge whole in the marina community and he will never be forgotten”. 

Karl's colleagues at Whitehaven Marina Ltd lit candles in his memory (Image: Whitehaven Marina Ltd)

A statement from Whitehaven Harbour Commissioners said: "Whitehaven Harbour Commissioners were shocked by the sudden, sad news and we send our deepest condolences to Karl's family and friends.

“Our thoughts are particularly with everyone at Whitehaven Marina Limited, with whom we work closely. Many of our team knew Karl well through their combined work around the harbour and he will be missed enormously.”

A 'farewell gathering' will be held for those who wish to pay their respects to Karl (Image: Family handout)

If anyone would like to pay their respects, 'Karl's Farewell Gathering' will be held at Whitehaven Golf Club on October 22 at 2pm.