Obituary of John Joseph Brennan

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John Joseph Brennan, born in Toronto August 27, 1951, died peacefully, September 6, 2024, age 73, encircled by the love of his family at Parkwood Hospital, London.

John is the  beloved husband of Shirley and much loved father of Denise Brennan, Danielle (Chris Van Hyfte), John Byron Brennan (Tabitha Collins) and Branden Handsor and a wonderful grandfather to Emma and Luke Van Hyfte and Jack Brennan.

As the eldest son of John (dec. 1980) and Jean Sweet Brennan (dec. 2014), John was a “big” brother to his 7 siblings: Kathy (dec. 2002), Franco Lupi (Doris), Joe ( Sheila), Maureen (Mark Trinnear), Peter (Carol), Paul (Patty), Chris (Dawn), Anne (Jeff Rae) who miss him deeply, especially his hearty laugh, his love of life and family. 

Much loved brother-in-law of Ray Goossen (Lo-Anne) and Natalie Angeles (Russell). 

Fondly remembered by dozens of nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews, especially for his "Uncle John jokes".

Dedicated entrepreneur, John's career in the shoe business spanned more than five decades. John was the owner of Brennan Shoes in Strathroy in the 80’s. He then became a Wholesale Sales Rep with Brown Shoe Company. As a Shoe Rep, he met Shirley at Simply Shoes, Blenheim. They were married in 2006 and then together they expanded the business into Chatham until their retirement in 2021.

John made connections easily, and was a natural salesman, who always remembered to drop in on past clients in small towns across Ontario, years after completing his work as a wholesale representative. John served on local BIAs in his communities, and is known by many as a patient and consistent mentor. A lifelong classic car enthusiast, John never missed an opportunity to visit a car show. He was a member of the Kent Historic Auto Club and organizing the Blenheim Classics Auto Show.

John was fortunate to be warmly welcomed by his final work family, the lovely crew at McKinlay Funeral Home. There, he continued to be involved with the community and connect with people.

Visitation will be held at the Funeral Home, 459 St. Clair Street, Chatham on Wednesday, September 11, 2024  from 6:00-8:00 PM.

A Celebration of Johns’s life will be held at the Funeral Home at 1:00 PM on Thursday Sept 12,  2024.

Donations to the Canadian Cancer Society are appreciated by the family.

Online condolences may be left at www.mckinlayfuneralhome.com

McKinlay Funeral Home
459 St. Clair Street, Chatham
519-351-2040