LOCAL NEWS, DELIVERED DAILY. Subscribe to our daily news wrap and get the top stories sent straight to your inbox every evening.
Long-time Parksville fire chief Marc Norris (L) was recently honoured for his 35 years of service. (City of Parksville)
deserved recognition

Parksville honours fire chief after 35 years of service

Oct 12, 2025 | 6:30 AM

PARKSVILLE — A local fire chief was recently honoured for his long years of dedicated service to the community.

Parksville fire chief Marc Norris recently received the 35-year long service award on behalf of the Office of the Fire Commissioner of B.C., and the 35-year Provincial Long Service Bar during the Oct. 6 regular council meeting.

Mayor Doug O’Brien said Norris “truly exemplifies what it means to serve with passion, skill, and dedication.”

“His commitment inspires both fellow firefighters and members of the public, and his leadership has shaped the department and strengthened public safety across the Parksville Fire Protection Area.”

Norris has spent his entire career with the Parksville Volunteer Fire Department (PVFD), starting out as a junior volunteer in 1990 and being promoted to Lieutenant in 2001.

“Just a year later, he became the City’s first full-time deputy chief, with a strong focus on training and development. In 2016, he was appointed fire chief, where he continues to lead a growing and progressive department with professionalism, integrity, and vision,” said O’Brien.

He’s also a second-generation firefighter, as his father, chief Paul Norris, was also a member of the Parksville Fire Department from 1976 to 1997.

Parksville fire chief Marc Norris (holding certificate) joined by Parksville mayor Doug O’Brien on his right, and other members of the City and PVFD during the Oct. 6 council meeting. (City of Parksville)

Follow us on Facebook. Join Everything Nanaimo on Facebook and stay connected with everything happening on central Vancouver Island.

info@nanaimonewsnow.com

Follow us on: Twitter (X) | Bluesky | Facebook