The DeBrodt Family

Donor: Donna Murphy and Friends of the DeBrodt Family
Tree Species: Redbud

Cleveland Metroparks gratefully acknowledges Donna Murphy and friends of of the DeBrodt family for contributing to the Legacy Fund. This gift supports reforestation in Cleveland Metroparks now and for the future.

Don DeBrodt instilled a love of nature to his children (Dale and Donna) when they were young. Often he would gather them and some neighborhood kids for adventures down in the valley – climbing mountains, crossing rivers, skipping stones, playing sports, eating apples off trees, etc. Enjoyable times never failing to come back home exhausted and muddy thinking about the next adventure.

Lois DeBrodt thoughtfully began an Easter morning breakfast tradition at South Mastick Picnic Area after the birth of her first grandchild. The food would be prepared and cooked by the pavilion with tablecloths and centerpieces while the kids would search for hidden Easter eggs. She truly treasured these gatherings and the weather was never a deterrent. 

As an adult after coming back to Ohio from California, Dale DeBrodt ritually began many days driving through the valley stopping at his favorite spots to read the paper, drink coffee and go for hikes. He also was an avid golfer who loved the Metroparks courses.

Donna and friends of the DeBrodt family feel it is most fitting to plant this memorial tree for them while  supporting the place where they each had some of their happiest moments.