Berkowitz, supervisor and businessman, passes away

Del Norte County Supervisor Bob Berkowitz died March 2, the county announced.

Berkowitz, who represented District 5 since 2017, has missed supervisors' meetings for the last few months, before the county announced his passing.

Bob served the citizens of Del Norte County with great dedication for many years and his contributions to making our community a better place will be sorely missed,” the county wrote in a press release. "The county extends our heartfelt condolences to his wife Bonnie, his family, friends, and all those who worked with him over the years."

Berkowitz was also a well-known businessman in Del Norte County and is credited with bringing the first FM radio station to Del Norte County.

During the board of supervisors meeting this week,  Board Chair Gerry Hemmingsen asked the community to keep Berkowitz and his family in their thoughts and prayers before the board took a moment os silence.

Long before becoming a county supervisor, Berkowitz was active politically. He served as a field representative for Congressman Frank Riggs and was a school board member in Del Norte County. He was first elected as supervisor in 2017 and re-elected in 2021. His term was to expire at the end of 2024.

His replacement on the board of supervisors will be selected by Gov. Gavin Newsom.

Del Norte County said the remaining four supervisors will be available to offer assistance to those living in District 5 until a new supervisor is named.