Old marina makes new memories

Steve Whitford

Lakebay Marina is open and in full operation. Photo by Hugh McMillan

Once upon a time, a young Gig Harbor boy named Mark Scott had a dream. Some children dream of becoming police officers or firefighters.

Scott dreamed of one day owning the Lakebay Marina, a place he had visited often and had fallen in love with.

The marina was originally constructed in the 1920s and serviced the mosquito fleet which facilitated transport of goods and folks in the Key Peninsula area.

Bill Durden built and ran the marina in the 1950s, which offered moorage, gas, food and camping for its many customers. In the 1960s, Reine Streich operated the marina until it was bought by Shane Hostetler in 1968.

In October of last year, Scott purchased the site on the way to making his dream a reality.

Restoring the marina to its former glory would require a lot of work and expense, but despite not having everything done, the Lakebay Marina celebrated its new grand opening on May 25, Memorial Day weekend.

Braving the cool weather, friends, neighbors and customers came by boat, car and on foot to celebrate the occasion. Scott, with help from his parents Jan, Rodger and wife Cindy, served up wine, burgers and beer. There was even a clam bake.

Free live music was provided by Roger Gemel and Dorene Paterson from the Rusty Roots Band.

Gemel performed keyboard base on a piano and lead vocals. Paterson strummed a banjo. They were accompanied by Dinah Gemel on ukulele, pastor Dan Whitmarsh on guitar, pastor Time Strobbe on fiddle and pastor Doug Paterson on mandolin. This impromptu group called themselves The Truffles, and despite only one week of preparation time, made sweet music together.

Local artist Tweed Meyer displayed and sold her landscape paintings on the wharf.

“This was a fine example of our community’s spirit,” Meyer said. “This isn’t the big city, this is a local dream, still in progress.”

The marina is now open 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., seven days a week.

According to Scott, guest moorage can accommodate 10 to 20 boats, depending on size. Besides a small store and café, there are camping and RV sites available complete with water and power. The marina is also a licensed boat seller and can handle private listings.

For information (253)881-3350 or visit lakebaymarina.com.