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James Brennan Obituary
Wauwatosa - Left this life to go home on June 6, 2021, at the age of 95 (and four months). Loving husband of his forever sweetheart "Joanie" (who predeceased him in 2010 after 60 years of marriage).
Beloved father of William (Mary Jean), Mary Jo (the late Rick) Goodman, Nancy (Mike) Briesemeister, and Marty (Connie). Beloved "second dad" of every other kid on 87th Street.
Proud grandpa of Tim and Tom Cox and Brigid (David Casey), Katy (Neil Bell), Carly (Sarah) and Colleen Brennan.
Great-grandpa of six.
Dear brother of the late Joe (Virginia) Brennan, the late Father William Brennan SJ, the late Kathleen Brennan, Terry (the late Mary Louise) Brennan, and Eileen (the late Barney) McCullough, Marilyn (the late Bob) Hartmann, Nancy (the late John) Steigerwald, Virginia (the late George) Halaska.
Jim is a graduate of Marquette University High School, Notre Dame University and Marquette University Law School. He was a remarkable athlete who excelled in Hockey, Boxing, Track and Football - playing halfback at Notre Dame.
Jim was an attorney, State Senator, U.S. Attorney, and Milwaukee City Attorney who lived out his commitment to Justice and Equality. Jim loved everyone and he was widely loved in return.
Gathering Monday June 14th, 2021, at CHRIST KING PARISH (2601 N. Swan Blvd., Wauwatosa), from 9:30 AM to 11:45 AM, followed by Mass of Christian Burial at 12:00 noon. Private burial to follow. Memorials to "Catholic Charities" are appreciated.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for James Brennan
Tom Weil
June 3, 2025
As one of his AUSAs I can never forget the opportunity he gave me. Truly of of the kindest people I've ever known ..... of blessed memory
Molly Brennan, niece in New York
June 28, 2021
Uncle Jimbo was an easy favorite because he was such a family man, and always smiling. Now matter where you found him, his was the warmest welcome, ready with the quickest quip or trivia, or "let's discuss" the latest news of political or cultural importance. He seemed to blend seamlessly his dedication to his family and his work, serving the public in elected roles and defending civil rights on a human level. No matter the outcome for him personally, he loved the debate and exchange of ideas. True Irishman that he was, he managed to keep it lively whether he agreed or disagreed, and framed by his amazing bushy eyebrows, always had a twinkle in his eye. Miss you already, Uncle Jim, and sending tons of love to my dear cousins and all the extended family.
Ann Kranstover-Scott
June 19, 2021
Our thoughts and prayers for our Uncle Terry on his loss, as well as the entire Brennan family. The color and joy of life is somewhat diminished by Jim's death. May he rest in peace.
The Kelley-Kranstover family
Bruce Schrimpf
June 14, 2021
At a pivotol time in my life Mr. Brennam hired me to the City Attorney's Office.
He and his staff gave me an opportunity to really practice law and move forward with my life. Thanks Mr. Brennan. Rest peace! BDS
Diane Laird Omdahl
June 13, 2021
My sister, Joan and brother, Ron and I were some of the kids blessed to have known Mr. and Mrs. Brennan and their family. My sister and I used to babysit and help Mrs. Brennan with the housework. This arrangement was made to help us pay for our tuition at Pius High School. Bill was around seven or so? My brother remembers Mr. Brennan flooding the backyard in winter so they could ice skate. We had the greatest neighborhood and your family was a large part of it! I think your parents took us under their wing because we lost our father at an early age. The title of second Dad, was especially fitting for us. You´re in thoughts and prayers.
Sheila Gustafson
June 13, 2021
Condolences to Mary Jo and the entire Brennan family on the passing of your father. He was a community leader who lived a long and productive life. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Tom Weil
June 11, 2021
I was privileged to be an Assistant U S Attorney with Jim as my boss. I have the warmest memories and am forever grateful for the opportunity to have worked with and for this wonderful man. My deepest condolences.
Judge John and Judge Jean DiMotto
June 11, 2021
Jean and I extend our condolences to the entire Brennan family on the passing of Jim.
Patty (Piwonski) Davis
June 10, 2021
Mr. B. was always there for me when I needed advice. He was kind, non judgmental and I knew as he spoke, that he really cared. He helped me make a huge decision in my life and for this I am forever grateful. Mr. B was the first person I got to vote for when I turned 18. I had fun campaigning for him. The MOST FAIR HONEST Politician Milwaukee has ever had.
My love to Mary Jo, (my buddy), Nancy, Marty and Bill. You guys were so lucky to have had such an loving dad.
RIP Mr. B. together again with Joanie.
Richard Lulloff
June 10, 2021
I am a volunteer at St Camilus where James was a resident. I took James to and from mass and lunch on countless occasions prior to the pandemic. I have have not seen him for 16 months because of the lockdown and I am very sad about his passing. I enjoyed and will miss the banter we had however I am confident he is in a better place. My condolences to the Brennan Family.
Best Regards,
Richard Lulloff
and will miss him.
Franklyn Gimbel
June 10, 2021
I had the very distinct pleasurer to work for Jim Brennan for 5 years as an Assistant United States Attorney - Jim was the most "JUST" human being that I ever met. He was a champion for the underdog in sports and more importantly in human relationships. The Milwaukee environment is better today than it would have been because James Butler Brennan lived here for 95 years. May he rest in peace and all of his friends and relatives' feel the blessings of their connections with JBB
Kyle
June 9, 2021
Mr. Brennan lived a long wonderful life having a constant, positive impact on those around him. His lasting legacy is in the success of his Children and Grandchildren and the many lives he touched. He now resides in the warm embrace of our Savior. Godspeed to his Family
Donald K Peck
June 9, 2021
We were at MUHS and then in the Navy at Notre Dame together. After WW2, we visited at several MUHS reunions. He was exceptionally pleasant and friendly on every occasion.
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