Martin Aloysius Brennan Jr., 80, of Vero Beach, passed away on April 23, 2014.
He is survived by the great love of his life, best friend, and wife of 54 years, Eileen; six children and their spouses, Therese (John) Dempsey, Bridget (Chris) D’Angelo, Martin III (Johanna), Brian (Bethany), James (Gwen), and Charles (Meghan); 21 grandchildren; siblings, Patricia McCarthy and Gerald; and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his brothers, Vincent, William, Joseph, Timothy, and Michael.
Brennan was born on May 4, 1933 to Martin and Ann in St. Clair Shores, Mich.
He treasured and was a great inspiration to his 21 grandchildren and repeatedly reminded them that “There is no substitute for family life.” Throughout his life he was a role model and tireless champion for the importance of family, the Catholic faith, the dignity of life, the importance of simple acts of kindness, and showing humanity and respect for all.
When his children were young he was often their little league coach, chaperoned their dances, was president of the Brother Rice Dad’s Club, and went to every one of their games. He was also an avid golfer.
Brennan served in the Korean war and was a successful businessman, founding Brennan Development in 1974. His company helped develop some of Detroit’s largest construction projects including the Detroit Metropolitan Airport, the Renaissance Center, 150 West Jefferson, virtually all of the automotive plants including the Ford River Rouge Complex, and Epcot Center in Lake Buena Vista, Fla.
Upon his retirement in 2006 he and his wife dedicated their additional time to their communities. Brennan was president of the Parish Council of St. Hugo of the Hills in Bloomfield Hills, Mich., and was a member of both the Cardinal’s Club of Detroit and Legatus of Detroit. He was president of the John’s Island Condominium Association for several years. He passionately gave his time and expertise to Habitat for Humanity, and most recently the Gifford Youth Activity Center where he served on the Facilities and Long Range Planning Committees. He genuinely cared about the children’s progress and was described as “the breath” of their program. Throughout his days he strove to improve the lives of others, always quietly championing those in need from all walks of life.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, May 1 from 3 to 8 p.m. at A. J. Desmond and Sons, Vasu Rodgers and Connell Chapel, 32515 Woodward Ave, between 13 and 14 Mile, Rosary at 7 p.m. Funeral mass will be held Friday, May 2 at 11 a.m., St Hugo of the Hills Church, 2215 Opdyke Rd, Bloomfield Hills, 48304.
In lieu of flowers donations in his memory may be made to The Gifford Youth Activity Center, 4875 43rd Avenue, Vero Beach, FL 32967, or the New Beginnings Thrift Store c/o Holy Childhood of Jesus Church, 150 W. Main St., Harbor Springs, MI 49740. View obituary and share memories at www.DesmondFuneralHome.com.
