John D. Pennekamp Jr.

John D. Pennekamp, Jr., 91, passed away peacefully on Thursday, Feb. 22 surrounded by his family. He was preceded in death by the love of his life Dolores, his wife of 46 years whom he lovingly referred to as Slim. Pennekamp was born in Miami, Fla. on Oct. 1, 1926 as the son of John and Irene Pennekamp. He graduated from the U.S. Military Academy in 1950 and served in the Air Force for 21 years. During his service he earned the designation of Command Pilot and reached the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. Following his service to our country, he held executive positions at SouthEast and SunTrust banks for a combined 23 years. In his retirement, he enjoyed sailing, traveling, and spending time with family and friends. Pennekamp was the light of his family reunions where he enjoyed conducting count offs of his progeny and progeny-in-law, which totaled 26 at the time of his death. He was passionate about martinis, Tabasco sauce, football and the history of his hometown “Myamuh.” Some of his most notable Pennekampisms were “Dammit, Pennekamp,” “Holy Joe!” and “It’s not a complaint, it’s just a comment.” He is survived by his six children: Pam Gruver and her husband Bill of Haymarket, Va.; John Pennekamp and his wife Sharon of Deland, Fla.; Cathy Frank of Naples, Fla.; Jim Pennekamp and his wife Beth of San Antonio, Texas; Tom Pennekamp and his wife Jana of Tallahassee, Fla.; and Pat Pennekamp and his wife Jeanine of Hudson, Ohio. Pennekamp is also survived by his eight grandchildren and one great-grandchild. The funeral will be held Monday, Feb. 26 at 3 p.m. at Saint John the Evangelist Catholic Church at 625 111th Ave. N, Naples, FL 34108. Memorial contributions may be made to the Friends of Florida State Parks: friendsoffloridastateparks.org.