Michael C. Brennan

1950 – 2024

  Michael “Mike” Brennan, 74, of Drexel Hill, P.A., died peacefully October 14, 2024. He was predeceased by his parents, Francis Brennan and Mary (nee McCarthy); his brothers, Joseph Brennan, James Brennan and Robert Brennan and his nephews, Shawn McLaughlin and Michael Brennan. 

He is survived by his wife, Anna (nee O’Donnell) Brennan; his children, Michael (Dana) Brennan, Cagney (Clarisse) Brennan and Kyle (Noelle) Brennan; his grandchildren, Tréan, Isla, Beatrix, Fíona, and Kyle. He is also survived by his sister, Frances Billups, and many nieces and nephews. 

Born into a strong, Irish family, he was proud to be a Brennan. A native of “2 Street,” he spent his days with siblings and friends on the basketball courts and baseball diamonds of South Philly. Mike was elected into the Bishop Neumann Hall of Fame for both baseball and basketball. He met his beautiful bride, Anna, and had a wonderful life and marriage that began in 1975. Mike was a devoted husband who adored his wife. He was a reliable father, a loving “Pop” and everyone’s favorite uncle. 

After graduating from the Philadelphia College of Textiles and Science, he had a brief stint as an accountant. He then followed in the footsteps of his father and uncles by starting a career as a longshoreman that spanned 50 years. Most notably, as the Timekeeper at Packer Ave Marine Terminal. He spent his life's work dedicated to doing right by the hardworking men and women of the Philadelphia Waterfront. His experience and knowledge of the industry quickly garnered the respect of everyone around him. He was known as the man to seek out for any question or concerns.

While this took much of his time, he was never too busy to devote the rest of his day to his family and the St. Dorothy community. He was always there for a ride to practice or a game. A word of advice, or a different perspective. He was a straight shooter, one that everyone respected.

Mike was as tough as they come. He fought for years through three cancer diagnoses and heart failure. He wanted to show his three sons how to be reliable, strong men - so he led by example. No matter what, he never had an excuse, never missed work or family gathering.

In the last chapter of his life, he fought for the opportunity to spend time with his grandchildren and for them to know him when he's gone. He beat the odds and achieved his goal. Tréan, Isla, Bea, Fíona, Kyle, (and his buddy Mac,) Pop adored you and will watch over you for the rest of your lives. 

And the next time you hear “Rocky Raccoon” by The Beatles, know that Mike Brennan is singing along with you.

Relatives and friends are invited to his viewing Friday, October 18, 2024 6:00 to 9:00 pm and Saturday, October 19, 2024 9:00 – 10:15 am at Ruffenach Funeral Home 4900 Township Line Road, Drexel Hill, Pennsylvania 19026. His Funeral Mass will follow at 10:30 am at Saint Dorothy Church, 4910 Township Line Road, Drexel Hill, Pennsylvania 19026. Interment Saints Peter and Paul Cemetery.