A man whose heart was firmly planted in nature is being remembered for his key role in preserving a jewel of the Okanagan.

Ray Worley is one of the people responsible for the creation of Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park.

At 84 years old, Worley died June 29, 2024.

Prior to his passing, Worley lived next to the vast 3,200 hectare Kal Park, a place he loved to walk in and enjoy.

So much so that he helped ensure the park would remain a public place for all to enjoy.

"It was through the efforts of Ray and a few others almost 50 years ago that Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park exists today," said Peter Horsley, past president of the Friends of Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park Society (FKLPPS). "They lobbied for the province of B.C. to buy the initial parcel of land from the Coldstream Ranch to establish the park. Which they did in 1975."

Born in New Zealand, Ray went on to travel the world before settling in Vernon with his family. He taught English and German and later worked for the B.C. Teachers Federation.

He joined the Vernon Naturalists and Vernon Outdoors Clubs in the 1970s.

Along with advocating for the establishment of Kal Park, Worsley was a founding member and president of FKLPPS.

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Horsley first met Worley on his own daily walk in Kal Park in 2018, just prior to him receiving the award.

With long-time president Harold Sellars stepping down from the society, Worley "drafted" Horsley for the position.

"He said that there was no other board members stepping up and he was afraid that the group might fold if no one did," Horsley said. "Ray's plead was very compelling. I told him that while reluctant to assume this leadership role, I would do so at the upcoming AGM if no one else was willing to."

Up until last year, Worley and his wife, Elizabeth, lived next to Kal Park, eventually wintering in Vancouver where he enjoyed his daily walks in Stanley Park without the danger of ice and snow.

His health declined and a permanent home in Vancouver allowed better access to medical and support services.

"I heard from Ray and or Elizabeth on a regular basis in the last year of Ray's life. He would call me up to check how things were going in the park," said Horsley. "I always enjoyed our chats. I'll miss this extraordinary man."

A celebration of life is being planned, but details are not yet confirmed.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Friends of Kalamalka Lake Park () or the Alzheimers Society.

Ray is survived by his wife Elizabeth, son Geoff, daughter Anne (Piotr), granddaughter Helena, brother Bruce (Australia) and sister Linda (New Zealand) and their families.