FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 28, 2018

CONTACT: DEP Press Office, 850.245.2112, DEPNews@dep.state.fl.us

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Family Ties Run Deep at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park

~Descendants of the park's namesake celebrate legacy~

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Many families hold their reunions at Florida State Parks, where everyone can celebrate while enjoying natural beauty and recreation. Among those families is one with a personal connection to John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park.

Thirty-four members of the Pennekamp family gathered at the state park to celebrate the life of John D. Pennekamp Jr., son of the park’s namesake, who passed recently at age 91.

“By going to the park, it allowed us the opportunity to reflect not only on the wonderful life of our dad and mom, but also the amazing accomplishments of our grandfather, John D. Pennekamp,” said Tom Pennekamp, son of John Pennekamp Jr.

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection's Florida Park Service oversees 175 state parks and trails offering beaches, springs, wildlife viewing and more. Read more about how a love of Florida State Parks is a family tradition for the Pennekamps.

About Florida State Parks, Greenways and Trails

The Florida Park Service is the proud recipient of three National Gold Medals for Excellence in Park and Recreation Management, making Florida America’s first three-time Gold Medal winner. The awards were received in 1999, 2005 and 2013 from the American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration and the National Recreation and Park Association.

Florida’s 175 state parks, trails and historic sites inspire residents and visitors with recreation opportunities and scenic beauty that help strengthen families, educate children, expand local economies and foster community pride. With nearly 800,000 acres, 100 miles of beaches and more than 1,500 miles of multi-use trails, residents and visitors should plan to visit soon and often to enjoy Florida’s natural treasures. Download the Florida State Parks Pocket Ranger® mobile app, available on iTunes and Android Market, to plan your trip and enhance your experience. For more information, visit www.FloridaStateParks.org.

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