Tampa, Fla. – The President and CEO of The Florida Aquarium released the following statement this afternoon after the passing of Bill Crown, the organization’s founding member.
“Bill was one of the driving forces behind opening The Florida Aquarium more than 25-years ago. It was his vision to create a conservation-based aquarium that would inspire, educate and captivate children and adults alike. He worked tirelessly to gather the financial backing for the Aquarium, along the way always encouraging others to protect Florida’s precious natural environment. While we have lost a great ambassador and friend, Bill’s presence will forever be felt at The Florida Aquarium.” – Roger Germann, The Florida Aquarium President and CEO
Crown was a longtime Clearwater resident who founded The Florida Aquarium Inc. in 1986. His dream was realized when The Florida Aquarium opened its doors in 1995. Crown went on to serve on the non-profit’s Board of Directors and as a Trustee.
Germann notes one of his first meetings after taking over as President and CEO was with Crown. He says from that meeting forward, Crown was an inspiration and he worked to ensure Crown’s vision and standards for The Florida Aquarium were always honored.
Crown is survived by his wife Bette of 48-years. Thoughts and prayers to the entire Crown family.
You can read Crown’s obituary here: Bill Crown Obituary.
About The Florida Aquarium
The Florida Aquarium actively participates in and promotes stewardship of the natural environment as part of our mission of conservation. As a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization, The Florida Aquarium provides an opportunity for visitors to experience a wide variety of aquatic and terrestrial animals, explore complex ecosystems, engage with interactive and informational exhibits and search for wild dolphins in Tampa Bay. More than a must-see attraction, The Florida Aquarium is working to protect and restore our blue planet through conservation efforts that included ground-breaking research and rescue efforts that help restore Florida’s coral and sea turtle populations. To learn more, follow us on social media at @floridaaquarium and visitwww.flaquarium.org.