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Brennan, John J., M.D. Dr. John J. Brennan passed away peacefully on Sunday, January 12, 2014 surrounded by his family. John was born in Milwaukee on June 15, 1922 to Sarah (nee Boden) and John J. Brennan. Dr. Brennan was devoted to his faith, his family and his practice. He served as an OB-GYN in Milwaukee for more than 50 years and was a devoted voice for the unborn child. He was a proud graduate of St. Rose Grade School, Marquette University High School, Marquette University and Marquette Medical School. After medical school, he served in the Army during WWII. John was married to Joan Gorman Brennan for 62 years, he is the father of 11 children; Michael (Anna) Brennan, Patrick (Margaret) Brennan, Jean (Paul) Beggan, Jan (Jeff) Kaufman, Jane (David) Nelson, Timothy (Julie) Brennan, Sarah (John) Mullarkey, Mary (Daniel) Druml, Brigid (Patrick) Brennan, Kathleen (PJ) Burbach and John Brennan; grandfather of 33 and great grandfather of 1. John was proud of his Irish heritage and was given the honor of being named Irishman of the Year in 1967. John looked to help others, looked for the good in others and looked for love in all things, as he would say "try love". Visitation will be held at the Funeral Home on Thursday, January 16 from 4 to 7 PM. A Mass of Christian Burial celebrating John's life will take place on Friday, January 17, 10:30 AM at Church of Gesu, Milwaukee. In his memory and in lieu of flowers, donations are appreciated to ALS Association Wisconsin Chapter, MS Society of Wisconsin or the Dr. John J. and Joan M. Brennan Endowed Student Award in OB/GYN at the Medical College of Wisconsin.
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Sponsored by BECKER RITTER ELMBROOK FUNERAL HOME.
He was the best doctor for me. I met him when I had a miscarriage and he told me to go straight to the hospital. His kindness showed me he cared about me. From that time on, if I had an appointment and he was gone I would sit and wait to be seen. If he was delivering I waited. He also told me about the history of Milwaukee and I loved him for that. He will truly be missed as he delivered my last child after he told me that I was a special case. Bed rest at 8 weeks. I did it because I trusted him and we delivered my miracle baby on 6-6-94 @6 pds 6 oz at 6:20 pm. Thank you doc you will be missed!
Carlese Harris
Friend
November 24, 2023
Dr Brennan delivered his first baby of his career,It was my mother’s last baby that was full of cancer in 1951 October the baby lived 8 hrs and passed, my mom died Dec 8/1951, I was sent to him for my 2nd baby and he asked if my name was Emer I said yes and he said now I have her daughter, he said what a sad story that was I’ll never forget it. That was 1967. I never forgot The Great Dr J Brennan loved that man♥Rest in peace
Jean Emer Domrose
Acquaintance
October 1, 2023
I know this message is years later. As a matter of fact it's 2018. However, I was just thinking of Dr. Brennan and his entire family and went to look their number up and found this. I was at the funeral but didn't ever put a message in here. So here it goes.
My time spent with Dr.Brennan and getting to know him was indeed some of the best years of my life. Never have I met a more kind and caring man. His love for family and friends, well life in general shines through his 11 children and all 33 grandchildren. The entire Brennen family are wonderful people. They are the way they are because of Dr. & Mrs. Brennan. You can feel the love in the house when you walk In. I am honored to know them and to have for to know and talk with Dr.Brennan many times. I miss you all. GOD BLESS ALL OF YOU..
Long Lost Friend
June 25, 2018
I came across this just now (in looking up a dr's name otherwise) and see my daughter's doctor has passed on. My sincere sympathy in the loss of this good dr. to his family and friends. I have a fond memory of him helping me to even call him on Christmas day as he said he didn't mind and he gave me needed medical advice that helped remedy something after my daughter's birth that resolved it in a day. He will be so missed.
T. Rawski
July 19, 2016
Johnson
September 24, 2015
My condolences go out to the Brennan family.
I just saw this obituary today,as I was telling my twenty year old daughter about Dr. Brennan ,whom delivered both her & her 23 year old sister. Dr.Brennan was a wonderful person, very kind & understanding. I am very grateful to him ,as I was very young when I had my daughters & he always took the time to explain things to me that I did not understand.I feel very blessed to have had him as my doctor.
Barbara J.
February 5, 2015
I am sorry to hear of his loss my father just decided to show me my birth certificate after my 14 years of life and I did some digging on my doctor who delieverd me and I find out her has gone to be with the the Lord. Dr. Brennan delieverd me on December 27, 1999 at 8:36AM at St.Josephs
Hannah
November 10, 2014
My thoughts and prayers are with your family. So sorry to hear of the loss of your father. May you find comfort in the love from family and friends.
Sue Golubski-Pretzel
March 16, 2014
Dear Dr.Brennan I always think of you from time to time. So I decided to look your name up to see if I could fine something recent about you.And sadly this is what I found.Thanks for delivering my son Gerald Jenkins on 09/14/1998 he is a wonderful child just like you were,And to add he is a silver glove winner and has won many other metals and trophies in boxing.I will miss you deeply for always.
P.S. I just wonder of how many baby angels you will deliver in heaven. Love always your patience Mrs.Janara Jenkins
Janara Jenkins
February 9, 2014
So sorry, all Brennans. He was quite good guy!
Katie Flamme Pionkoski
January 30, 2014
Your father was one of the great ones....my condolences to your family. Kim (Hall) Richardson
January 29, 2014
My sympathy to Dr. Brennan's family; he was a compassionate doctor, made house calls to the far south west side of town, which was definitely appreciated. My husband and I remember him fondly. Peace be with you.
Carole Dehli
January 29, 2014
We are very sorry to hear of the passing of Dr. Brennan. He was a great doctor who always takes quality time to talk to his patients. He delivered three of our daughters in 1987. 1990 and 1993. Our prayers are with his family.
Owen & Carol Ffrench, Milwaukee Wisconsin
January 25, 2014
Sympathy and much love to the Brennan clan. I would like to have been there for the send off. Dr. Brennan and Mrs. Brennan were always good to me when I would spend time at your home with Pat, Jan and Jean back in the 70s. Lots of great memories of the Brennan Family. You are all in my heart and prayers. Love, Andy High.
January 23, 2014
Thank you for delivering our first baby, James Beyer. in yr.1962. He was a wonderful dr. Our prayers and thoughts are with your family. Howie & Nancy Beyer, New Berlin, WI.
January 22, 2014
With many wonderful child-hood memories of the Doctor and your family. Fondly, The Vedder family
Bill Vedder
January 21, 2014
I was sorry to hear this news... I was out of town last week, otherwise I certainly would have been at the Mass. All my best to the Brennan family.
Tim Hilbert
January 20, 2014
Jeannie and Family ~ Our deepest sympathy on your loss. We wish we could be with you just to give you a big hug. Our thoughts and prayers are with you always. Love ~ Debbie & Andy Walter
January 20, 2014
Deep condolence, prayers and blessings to Joan and family at a time of sorrow. Dr. John's life had the ring of popular sainthood, even if not official. R.I.P. Fr. Eugene Winkler, MACCW Moderator when you were its president.
January 19, 2014
What a man, what a Dr. and what a blessing !!!!!!!!!!!
sue diehl
January 19, 2014
Thoughts and prayers to the entire Brennan Family. Dr. Brennan was a very special individual who never forgot where he came from. After our dad's passing, he was always told mom, he was only a phone call away. He was a friend for life to her and I'm sure to others,that began at St. Roses'.
The June Karkutt Girls
Georgene Kmiecik
January 19, 2014
Deepest sympathy to his family and friends. He delivered my 7 siblings and myself between from 1947 to 1961. Blessings to all.
Monica Guokas
January 18, 2014
It was a pleasure working with Dr. Brennan at St. Joseph's Hospital in the delivery room in the early 1960's. He taught me so much.
Mary Flaherty
January 18, 2014
My condolences to the entire Brennan family. I believe he delivered all of the 13 Von Rueden children and we thank him for that! I was in grade school, a friend of Mike, and really admired him. What made such an impression on me was that he seemed to be such a quiet, humble, and gentle man but had such a powerful presence! Very few people can live their life in such an unassuming manner and still have such a strong influence. He definitely had the deep, genuine respect and admiration of all who knew him. While I didn't know him that well, it was that impression he made on me when I was just a little kid that I remember to this day! What a blessing it was to learn that lesson at such a young age! Mrs Brennan was also such a classy lady! Again, my sincere condolences to the entire Brennan clan and thanks for all the blessings received from the Brennans to the Von Rueden family!
Tom Von Rueden
January 17, 2014
To the family, i remember Dr. Brennan as he delivered my two children who are 36 and 31 he was always the best Dr I had he was a very blessed man and I know it was no one like Dr. John Brennan. My God bless the family... JC Conner
January 17, 2014
My condolences to Mary, Tim and the whole Brennan Family. I am sure your Dad will be missed greatly however he will remain in all of you, may the celebration of his life bring comfort to you all!
Richard and Jeanne Sherer
January 17, 2014
Dear Brennan Family, So sorry for the passing of your dad. You are all in my tnoughts and prayers. Bobbie Anderson
Bobbie Anderson
January 17, 2014
Dear Brennan Family, So sorry to hear of the passing of your dad. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you. Bobbie Anderson
January 17, 2014
Dear Brennan Family,
The Tschopp Family sends their condolences. May your wonderful husband , father, and grandfather Rest In Peace.
Michele Tschopp
January 16, 2014
RIP Dr B
Katy Connell Bronson
January 16, 2014
Patrick,Sorry to hear of your loss.My deepest sympathy to you.
Mary Wroblewski
January 16, 2014
My condolences to the entire Brennan family. May you be consoled by your wonderful and happy memories. Dr. Brennan delivered my children in the 70's. He was a kind and compassionate doctor who often dispensed pearls of wisdom during office visits. May he enjoy his heavenly rewards.
Mary Duffy Kasum
January 16, 2014
Dr Brennan was such a kind man with a generous heart, twinkling eyes, dynamic smile and a great sense of humor. I have fond memories of him from the days I worked in my Dad's office next door to Dr Brennan in the Bockl Building.
May he rest in peace.
Christina Tolentino Stoll
January 16, 2014
What a wonderful man and a wonderful family. We miss men like Dr Brennan in the health care system today.
Pat Donohoo
January 16, 2014
Dear Brennans,
The earth has lost one of its finest citizens; one of its finest saints. May you be comforted in the knowledge that he waits for you in Heaven. Sincerely,
Ellen McBride
Ellen McBride
January 16, 2014
Dearest Brennan Family,
Through you, Dr. Brennan and his faith have touched us all and taught us much. I am honored to have known your husband/dad/grandfather.
Jill Horter-Woolwine
January 16, 2014
My mom and dad sat behind Dr. and Mrs. Brennnan for years at the Marquette basketball games. Their names were Joe & Julia Anderer and they thought the world of your family. I used to always talk to your parents about how much I loved their beautiful home in Tosa. You could see the pride beam on their face as they discussed their home and their wonderful children. What truly kind and wonderful people.
My mom and dad were at heavens gate to meet him in their MU gear with assorted memories of the days passed. Now I will pray for healing in your hearts as you navigate the world without him. Hugs to your mom, she is going to need her family now more than ever.
Julia Anderer-Westphal
Julia Westphal
January 16, 2014
Dr. Brennan was a wonderful and caring man. He delivered 3 of my children. The first time I went to his office, we talked for over an hour about the circus and many other things. He took his time with everyone and had such a kind manner about him. He talked often about how my husband and I had to ride the motorcyle to the hospital to have my son Victor beause our car wouldnt start.
He was a loving man and will be missed by many.
My Prayers are with your family...
Tammy Bartlett
Tammy Bartlett
January 16, 2014
Dr. John Brennan was a saintly man who served his God, his family and his patients with true dedication.He delivered 6 of our 8 children and was a physician mentor to me in my training and medical practice. My condolences to his beloved wife and family.Donald J Heyrman, M D.
January 16, 2014
My condolences to the family of Dr. Brennan. He was my OB-GYN during the 80's and delivered two of my three healthy babies. It was a pleasure to hear him say, "Babies in good position" and to know he was a doctor who had a great bed-side manner. My first delivery in August of 81, he left a family outing at State Fair to make sure I was comfortable and assured me that he wanted to be a part of my experience of becoming a mother. My second daughter was born during a bad snowstorm. When I arrived at St. Joe's he was already there. May his soul rest in peace, and his memory live forever.
Julie Sanders
January 16, 2014
Dr. Brennan will be missed my prayers are with the family. he was my doctor from 97-98 and 05-06 and he was a wonderful man and a wonderful doctor
sherry
January 16, 2014
Dr. Brennan delivered both of my children in the 80's. He was generous, kind, and very busy. Thanks for serving the Milwaukee community for all these years.
Mary Kohn
January 16, 2014
Dr. Brennan was a very special gift to me back in 1971 when I was looking for OB Dr. He delivered all three of my children. I was so blessed to have this great man take care of me and my children. I have often thought of him over the years. His quiet demeanor and gentle nature assured me all was well as my husband and I received into this world three beautiful children who give us great joy. A great man and father, rest in peace.
Chris Crowbridge
January 16, 2014
Dr. Brennan was a very special gift to me back in 1971 when I was looking for OB Dr. He delivered all three of my children. I was so blessed to have this great man take care of me and my children. I have often thought of him over the years. His quiet demeanor and gentle nature assured me all was well as my husband and I received into this world three beautiful children who give us great joy. A remarkable doctor and father, rest in peace.
Chris Crowbridge
January 16, 2014
I am so very sorry to hear of the passing of Dr. John. He will be missed by many. He is now with God and there for the "little ones" he so loved.
I will keep him in my prayers
Michael La Pointe
January 16, 2014
Thank you Dr. Brennan for delivering me 48 years ago, safe and sound :)
Anne Ahnert
January 15, 2014
To Joan and all the children and extended clan, Dr. Brennan served out family twice: delivered all 4 of our children at St. Joes and then welcomed my presence at the First Friday prolife group that met there until a few years ago when it changed to the First Tuesday group that continues to meet at our Love Life Library (his dedication to life initiated years before Roe v Wade) began my training in "respect for all human life & love". Thank you Dr. B and may this continue, Joan, in you and yours...Grateful for his spirit of life.
Phyllis Nickchen
January 15, 2014
Dr. & Mrs. Brennan are my god-parents and therefore held a special place in my life. I will never forget Dr. Brennan's great sense of humor and the special way he cheered on the Marquette Warriors. Oh, I loved going to those games & seeing the Brennans, way back when Al & Hank were coaching in the old Milwaukee arena. Great memories made even more special because of my god-parents!
John & Joan were dear friends of my parents and John certainly was a very special man.
We will keep the Brennan Family close in prayer.
Jon Buggy & Family
January 15, 2014
Rest in Peace Good and Faithful Servant. What a man! May the countless babies whom he fought so tirelessly on behalf of be there to welcome him home.
Greg Chesmore
January 15, 2014
Doctor Brennan delivered my 3 children also as he did many others but I still felt special because he treated each birth with the utmost attention and care. I feel blessed to have known such a dedicated doctor and person. My prayers go to Mrs. Brennan and the family.
Darlene Staniak
January 15, 2014
My thoughts and prayers are with your family. Your Dad was such a great man! I have many great high school memories spent at your house. Whenever I walked in to the house your Dad would say ....the great Robin Rogo is here... and he would clap. Always making you feel welcome.
God Bless.
Robin (Rogo) Rafferty
January 15, 2014
Thinking of Dr. Brennan in his passing, as he delivered two of our six children 25 years ago. Such a great pro life doctor; really appreciated that he was and how he truly cared for his patients.
Sheila Axt
January 15, 2014
When I was pregnant with baby #6 , had no insurance and was still paying off baby #5, Dr. Brennan (who did not even know me) went to the board at St. Joseph's hospital and told them I needed help. I got that help, had my baby free of charge and never forgot his generosity. Today, that baby is a young man, college educated and is a police officer. I will be having a Mass said for him and will pray for him and his family daily. Thank you Dr. Brennan!
Linda Strandt
January 15, 2014
On behalf of the entire Doucette family, please except our condolences. We have lost another of the all-time greats, who has taught us much by example. Heaven's mothers and their babies will surely be well looked after. God's speed to Dr. Brennan.
Richard Doucette
January 15, 2014
John devoted his life to the unborn child. I had the privilege over 40 years of working with John in these endeavors. His family was number one in his life. He had a strong belief in God. I love you John.
Dr. David V. Foley
Past President of AAPLOG
Dr. David Foley
January 15, 2014
Dr. Brennan had so much patience. He delivered our son, Paul, at St. Joseph's in '77. Thinking of you especially, Jan. His life is truly one which will be celebrated by thousands of grateful people.
Praying for you and his family.
Kathleen (Whalen) Stahly
Villa Rica, GA
Kathleen Whalen Stahly
January 15, 2014
John was amazing. For a few years I gave pro-life talks to students at MUHS and always had a doctor come along to make a stronger impression on them. Often, at the last minute, the doctor would have to cancel. If I called John, he would leave an office full of patients and came to the high school. Joan, I enjoyed working with him and with you at the Ronald McDonald House in 'Tosa. John gave 200% all the time. The world was a better place because of him. Ann Brebeck
Ann Brebeck
January 15, 2014
What a great man! He has a huge Marquette University basketball and football fan. His hollering "Hickey, you hamburger!" at the basketball games still resonates throughout the Arena.
Jim Sinsky
January 15, 2014
R.I.P. dear Dr. Brennan!
All four of my children were delivered by the good Dr. He was the kindest, most caring individual I have ever met. When my oldest was born- 48 years ago- he encouraged my husband to be in the delivery room(this at a time when it was not the norm). My husband never forgot that-or his words when the baby was delivered- "pregnancy is complete",and spoke of it until his dying day.
Thank you Dr. Brennan, for a life well lived.
pat
January 15, 2014
My sincere condolences to Joan and the rest of the great Brennan clan. A special man and a special wife and family. God bless, Luigi
January 15, 2014
Amazing man, husband and father. My thoughts and prayers are with the Brennan family. I know the Heavens above have an amazing man joining them.
Robbie Schaub
January 15, 2014
" Our prayers go out to the Brennan Family.Lorse and Thomas Stokes.."
January 15, 2014
So sorry for your loss, my thoughts and prayers are with you all. Brittany Klaus
Brittany Klaus
January 15, 2014
Dr. John J Brennan was an awesome Doctor!! I loved his pratice & beliefs. He delieverd all of my children 3 @ St. Joes & 1@ St. Francis 1985,1987,1989,&1990. I love telling people he put me & my husband on the rythm method (thermometer method)& we had 4 children! :O You are a blessed family to have had someone like Dr Brennan in your lives. His legacy will live on with each of you. My prayers & thoughts are with the family.
Mary Bobbitt-Wilson
January 15, 2014
Dr. Brennan delivered my first born daughter. He also lived just up the street from my parents, Ben and Helen Homan. He was a good man. Now I know his granddaughter Mary here at work. God bless you all dear Brennans. Margaret Plasencia
January 15, 2014
Dear Brennan family: What a wonderful life your dad had and what a truly special man. I have very fond memories of spending many a sleep over at the Brennan home in the Highlands. Sledding down the hill, swimming in the pool, playing hide-and-go-seek in their lovely home...that always welcomed a gaggle of kids. Mary (my classmate at Sebs) and all the other wonderful Brennans...my heart breaks for your immense loss but I am certain the best parts of your Dad live on in all of you. Blessings and love as you celebrate the incredible life of Dr. John Brennan.
Andy Haas Schneider and family
Andy Haas Schneider
January 15, 2014
Our hearts go out to the entire Brennan family
Stan and Betty Chandler
January 15, 2014
Sounds like a genuine, caring man. My prayers are with all whos lives he touched.
K. Murphy
January 15, 2014
Your dad was "Top Pop", that's for sure! What a beautiful legacy of love he leaves behind. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
Cathy Sheahan Varebrook
January 15, 2014
Patrick, so sorry for your loss. Condolences to you and your family. God Bless.
Orvana Harris
January 15, 2014
May the Brennan family joyfully celebrate all the Dr. Brennan accomplished in life and rejoice knowing that he lives on in the glory of God.
Tim Buggy
January 15, 2014
all my love and sympathy patient doris smith
January 15, 2014
Dr. Brennan was a very kind man. He delivered my God daughter and I can remember visiting him before he retired and he still had her picture on the wall in his office. He was amazing. My prayers are with the family.
Crystal
January 15, 2014
Joan: Please accept my condolensces on John's passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your entire family. May you find comfort in wonderful memories.
carol posada
January 15, 2014
Deepest Sympathies to the Brennan family. Dr. Brennan leaves a beautiful legacy through his family and all those he helped.
Bridget Brennan
January 15, 2014
Dr Brennan was a fine,honorable man.I'm grateful to have known him. Prayers and love to all the family. From an old neighbor,Barbara Zwicker Streber
January 15, 2014
My condolences, Brennan family. Dr. B. will be missed but will live on in all of you.
Sarah Brennan
January 15, 2014
Sorry to hear of the loss.
Gary Holcomb, Sr.
January 14, 2014
John was a dear friend for 78 years and did so much good its hard to believe.
Thomas Rohan and family
January 14, 2014
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