The community around Poeke Castle in Aalter, Belgium, is mourning the death of Niek Van Durme, a longtime park warden, caretaker and shepherd who devoted much of his life to the historic estate.
Van Durme was 56 years old and had been ill in recent times, according to a September 9, 2026 report by HLN. His death has prompted tributes from people and organizations connected to the Poeke estate and its natural surroundings.
Niek Van Durme and Poeke Castle
Van Durme’s connection to the Poeke estate was extensive. He lived on the farm located within the castle grounds and worked closely with the landscape, animals and natural environment surrounding the historic property.
HLN described him as the park warden, house caretaker and shepherd of the estate. Toerisme Vlaanderen remembered him as a man who knew the site exceptionally well and devoted himself to caring for it every day.
His role involved much more than simply maintaining the grounds. He became closely associated with the character and daily life of the estate and was a familiar presence to visitors, colleagues and people involved in local nature and heritage projects.
A Life Dedicated to Nature
Van Durme’s practical knowledge of landscape management was also reflected in work by Regional Landscapes, where he was featured discussing the management of botanical grasslands and identified as the manager of the Poeke castle estate.
His connection to the estate also included its sheep. The official Koetshuis Poeke program in 2025 listed Van Durme as the guide for nature walks involving the castle’s sheep flock, further demonstrating the role he played in connecting visitors with the site’s natural environment.
Remembering Niek Van Durme
Those who knew Van Durme are remembering a man whose life was deeply intertwined with the place he cared for.
His knowledge of the estate, commitment to its natural surroundings and daily work made him an important part of the Poeke community. His contribution extended across nature management, heritage and the practical care of the castle grounds.
Cause of Death
Reliable reporting confirms that Van Durme had been ill in the period before his death, but a specific medical cause has not been publicly established in the sources reviewed. No additional cause should be assumed or reported without confirmation.
Funeral and Memorial Arrangements
Detailed funeral or memorial arrangements were not included in the reliable report reviewed.
Any visitation, funeral or memorial information should be confirmed through Van Durme’s family or the relevant funeral provider when officially announced.
Niek Van Durme leaves behind a legacy closely connected to the landscape of Poeke — a place he knew intimately and cared for throughout his working life.