John Edward Brennan

On January 3, 2024, the world lost a beloved soul, John Edward Brennan, at the age of 81. Born on August 5, 1942, John’s journey on this earth was marked by a remarkable legacy of love, laughter and an unshakable spirit that now rests in eternal peace.

He is preceded in death by his father, Edward Brennan, and mother, Marcella; and his twin brother, Edward Brennan. 

Survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Michele Brennan; daughters, Kari Harrison, Lynne (Aaron) Miller, and Shannon (Jose) Acuña; grandchildren, Natasha (Jordan) Acuña, Gabrielle (Tomek) Schenk, Kristoffer (Steph) Acuña, Santiago Acuña, Alexandra Harrison, Connor Harrison, Dylan Harrison, Noah Miller, Elijah Miller; three great-grandchildren; and his sisters, Mary Jo Boxsted and Kathleen (Larry) Ehnstrom.  

John’s story was rooted in the city of St. Paul where he resided as a child, husband and father on Howell Street for 80 years. After John’s father’s passing at an early age, he became a true jack of all trades, and his perfectionist nature shone through in everything he did. His early years were filled with the joy of hunting for the “perfect” Christmas tree, a tradition he carried on as a father.  He would spend hours drilling holes into the tree to place branches in bare spots and then decorate each branch carefully with lights and ornaments. Even as a young man, his mother reflected that “only God and John can make a Christmas tree.”

During his remarkable 45-year career at Lockheed Martin, John exemplified a strong work ethic that carried him through many challenging times, including layoffs. He traveled many times to Mexico and Haiti, often returning with large hand-carved statues. Most lunch breaks you could find him enjoying a game of cribbage with colleagues.

In John’s personal life, you would find him cherishing time with friends and family. Some of his favorite activities included fishing, bowling league, camping, evening walks with Michele, traveling, and annual family trip to the cabin. His infectious spirit made him the kind of person who could light up a room the moment he walked in, effortlessly making friends and welcoming others wherever he went.  He loved being in nature, especially on a lake, which he often referred to as “God’s Country.” 

John loved his family. He made many sacrifices and always put them before himself. This love and dedication extended beyond his immediate family and was felt by his siblings, other relatives, and friends throughout his life.

John was also a die-hard Vikings fan. He loved watching or going to games, as well as taking his grandkids to the training camps. He started every season as an optimist and ended it as a realist, never to see the Vikings win the Super Bowl. 

John took on running in his early 60’s and enjoyed participating in the Twin Cities 10-mile, Monster half-marathon, Get in Gear and his running club at the YWCA.  He was always chasing after the elusive nine-minute mile. John enjoyed running for a cause and was a part of the NF fundraising team, forging many relationships through his support of the Neurofibromatosis Foundation.   

But what truly set John apart was his positivity, love and endless smiles. His glass was always half full, and even in the face of adversity, he radiated gratitude and resiliency. He often spoke of the guardian angels that were with him throughout life; their presence became even more evident during his challenging medical journey over the past three years. John often expressed his gratitude for his “angel on earth,” Michele, who he loved with all of his heart. His remarkable journey is a testament of the power of faith, prayer, and an unwavering spirit to overcome life’s toughest moments. 

John was a selfless soul, guided by a profound faith in God and a deep connection to the Catholic Church.  In celebrating John’s life, we remember a man who not only embraced a positive outlook on life but enriched the lives of those fortunate enough to have known him. His legacy of love, gratefulness, kindness, and selflessness will forever be cherished by friends and family, a reminder of the impact one soul can have on the world. 

As we bid farewell to John, may his memory continue to light our way, reminding us to strive for our own “9-minute mile,” find beauty in every corner of “God’s Country” and cherish every opportunity for “bonding” with our friends and family, for that is what makes life truly extraordinary. 

Mass of Christian Burial 11:00 AM Monday, January 15 at THE CHURCH OF ST. ODILIA, 3495 N. Victoria St., Shoreview.  Visitation 3-5 PM Sunday, January 14 at MUELLER-BIES FUNERAL HOME-ROSEVILLE, 2130 N. Dale St. @ County Rd B and from 10-11 AM Monday at the church. 

In lieu of flowers memorial preferred to Neurofibromatosis or the  Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.