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500 University Blvd. West
Silver Spring, Maryland
John Breen Obituary
JOHN PATRICK BREEN (Age 88)
On Saturday, September 10, 2011, of Silver Spring, MD. Beloved husband of the late Mary Elizabeth Breen and current wife, Jane S. Breen; father of Michael, Patrick, Thomas and James Breen, Maureen Stant, Monica Michewicz, Kathleen Partington, Mary Ellen Dorsey, Teresa Breen and Beth McAllister; brother of the late Mary M. and James F. Breen and Sheila B. Noziglia. Also survived by numerous grandchildren, great- grandchildren and other loving family and friends. Relatives and friends may call at Collins Funeral Home, 500 University Boulevard, West, Silver Spring, MD, (Valet Parking), Wednesday, September 14, 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. and at St. Ambrose Church, 3107 63rd Ave., Cheverly, MD on Thursday, September 15, 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m., where Mass of Christian Burial will be offered on Friday, September 16, 2011 at 10:30 a.m. Inurnment Arlington National Cemetery Columbarium at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to S.O.M.E., 71 O St., N.W., Washington, DC 20001 or to the DC Firefighters Burn Foundation, PO Box 4565, Washington, DC 20017.www.COLLINSFUNERALHOME.com
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Memories and Condolences
for John Breen
Al Kirchner
September 7, 2020
Chief Breen was always a gentleman's gentleman. He was a firefighter's firefighter and always looked out for each of us as if we were a member of his family. His dedication to the fire service and the District of Columbia Fire Department was inspiring and exemplary. The mentored many and was a walking history book of the D.C.F.D. On another front, he was an extraordinary family man reflected by many happy times with his wife Mary and the success of 10 extraordinary children. There is no doubt that he inspired me in many ways and did the same for so many others. Rest in Peace, Chief.
Vincent Brannigan
September 20, 2011
I have just heard of the death of my friend and Mentor, John Breen. He was also a close friend of my father and he inspired my work in fire safety. He was honest, courageous and dedicated to public service. His insistence on equal and fair treatment for all members of the fire service was an inspiration and a model. His humor and memory were legendary and his concern for the poor and disadvantaged and "at risk" had a lasting influence on safety codes and enforcement.
Janice Hill
September 16, 2011
Mary Ellen, my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Please accept my deepest sympathy.
Kevin Callahan
September 15, 2011
My heartfelt and sincere condolences go out to the entire Breen family. I am certain that the influence of his character, ethics, and spirit has been instilled in his children and grandchildren and will live on through them for many years to come.
God Bless
September 15, 2011
Chief Breen was a true gentleman and a great fire commander. It was an honor for me to have worked with such an honorable and decent man.
Ron Danner
Kathy Grow
September 15, 2011
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
September 15, 2011
Saw the Obit in the Washington Post.
My thoughts are with the Breen family. From a former co-worker of Michael Breen at ATF. Ed Reisman, Camp Springs, Maryland
Douglas Smith
September 15, 2011
Dear Breen Family,
Chief Breen was an icon to our brotherhood. I had the pleasure of working with him as a young Firefighter.
Condolences to the Breen family.
Al Kirchner
September 15, 2011
John Breen was one of the District of Columbia Fire Department's "greats" who held the respect of Firefighters across the city. He was a man on honor and a friend to all. He 'lived the job' and as Fire Marshal, made visionary and critical fire safety contributions to the region's Metro subway system that are still a benchmark for future systems around the world.
Outside the fire department, he was the consummate family man, always focused on the needs and goings on of his children. He was simply a pleasure to be around, especially when all the kids were at the table in the old house in Cheverly.
Although I saw his World War II military decorations on his fire department dress uniform, I never knew their significance until recently--the Distinguished Flying Cross and four Air Medals--a war hero of the highest calibre.
Chief, you inspired many by your actions and set the highest standards for all that followed you in the D.C. Fire Department. Rest in Peace old friend and thank you for all you did for me and so many others.
Al Kirchner
September 15, 2011
John Breen was one of the District of Columbia Fire Department's "greats" who held the respect of Firefighters across the city. He was a man on honor and a friend to all. He 'lived the job' and as Fire Marshal
Deb&Don Hutchison
September 14, 2011
To All of John Breen's Family,
You and your families are a testament to John's good life. He was someone to admire. May you all know peace at this time. Prayers and love, Deb and Don Hutchison
Dave Statter
September 14, 2011
My thoughts are with you all. At various events I had a number of discussions with Chief Breen about his time as the Fire Marshal and his great work on Metro safety. The region is a safer place because of him. I will remember him fondly.
Barbara Cantilena
September 14, 2011
I will always remember Mr. Breen with that little twinkle in his eye...such a fine man who treated me like one of the family when I was in college with his daughter, Monica. My memories of him are that he was strong, yet kind; firm when he needed to be, but fair; decent, decisive and fun-spirited. I am so sad about this. May God bless him and be with his entire family.
September 14, 2011
To the entire Breen family I offer my deepest sympathy. I will always have the fondest memories of Uncle John. Please know you are being kept in my thoughts and prayers. Tom Noziglia (nephew) - Alexandria, VA.
September 13, 2011
To the family: John was a gentleman and an all around nice person. My heartfelt prayers go out to you all. May God bless you and give you His peace and strength. Betty (Burt) Keenan
Verna & Stephen Minard
September 13, 2011
Marnie, Our deepest sympathy during your time of sorrow, we will keep you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.
The Talbert brothers
September 13, 2011
Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one today and always.
Lindsey Penley
September 13, 2011
Teresa,
You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.
The Diabetes Treatment Center
Donny & Brenda Poole
September 13, 2011
Jimmy, May your heart and soul find peace and comfort. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Carl and Betty Marceron
September 13, 2011
Melon, Our prayers are with you and your family.
September 13, 2011
In fond remembrance of a kind and loving man, devoted to God and family.
Rene Mast Livesay
Vickie Felts
September 13, 2011
Teresa, My condolences to you and your family.
Vickie Felts
(Teresa's co-worker at DTC)
September 13, 2011
Please know that many of us are thinking of you at this time, sharing in your grief, and remembering your Dad with great love, respect and admiration. We hope your many memories of this remarkable man will console you.
Love,
Cindy & Alan Smith and family
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Francis J. Collins Funeral Home, Inc. - Silver Spring500 University Blvd. West, Silver Spring, MD 20901
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