Obituary of Dennis William Brennan

September 14, 1953 - Calgary, Alberta

July 10, 2024 - Calgary, Alberta

We are profoundly saddened to announce the passing of our loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend, Dennis Brennan, on Wednesday, July 10, 2024, at the age of 70 years.

Dennis is survived by his wife Lynne Brennan (nee Colborne), daughter and son-in-law, Erin Brennan and Mathew Lear, and granddaughter Lilly Lear; and daughter Mallory Brennan. He is also survived by his sisters, Laurie O’Neill of Victoria, BC, Kerry Brennan of Calgary, AB, and Janie Brennan Evans (Peter Evans) of Markham, ON; as well as nieces and nephews, Reilly Nash, Casey Wagar, Grady O’Neill, Patrick O’Neill, and Kerry Harrison. Dennis was predeceased by his parents, Justice William (Bill) Brennan and Mary Jane Brennan (Steinbach).

The best times in Dennis’ life were those he spent with the people he loved and was the proud grandfather (“Bampi”) of Lilly, whom he cherished. His memory will forever live on in all our hearts.

Born in Calgary, Dennis attended Bishop Grandin High School and graduated from the University of Alberta with a BA degree in Comparative Religion. After university, he joined Diversified Transportation Ltd. in Fort McMurray, AB, where he worked and managed operations for seven years.

After returning to his beloved Calgary, Dennis carved a path to more success in the bussing industry, becoming President of Southland Transportation Ltd., where he grew the business from 50, to more than 500 busses. He was a member of the Alberta School Bus Contractors Association and subsequently led the organization as its President. Later, Dennis became the manager of Wetaskiwin Developments Ltd., until his retirement.

A lover of all things Irish, and with an unwavering pride in his Irish heritage, he celebrated his roots and cherished traditions, be it with his extensive travel of Ireland, or all varieties of Irish music and Irish dancing. Dennis was proud of his daughters and loved to see them perform Irish dance and participate in competitions. Many late-night parties concluded with Dennis performing a rousing rendition of “Brennan on the Moor”.

Dennis was a loyal lifetime supporter of the Calgary Stampeders Football Club and a major sponsor and supporter of "Little Warriors".

He was fascinated with the adventure that surrounded the Klondike Gold Rush. He always felt he had a special connection to this distinctive slice of Canadiana and had a great love and passion for its history, being captivated by Dawson City, the lure of the Yukon, and its characters.

Throughout his life, he emphasized family values, embraced life, and found joy in his passions. Dennis will be greatly missed, but never forgotten.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to the Palliative Team, Home Instead caregivers, and Dr. Kreutzer for their commitment to the care of Dennis throughout the last year. We are also grateful for the respect and compassion extended to him.

We also thank all our family and friends for their support and prayers. A Celebration of Dennis’s Life will be held at a future autumn date.  

If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to the Heart & Stroke Foundation of Alberta, 200, 119 – 14th Street N.W., Calgary, AB T2N 1Z6 Telephone: (403) 264-5549, www.heartandstroke.ca.

"May the road rise to meet you, the wind be always at your back and until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of His hand."

Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed with Dennis’s family here.

In living memory of Dennis Brennan, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Fish Creek, 14441 Bannister Road SE, Calgary, Ab t2x 3j3, Telephone: 403-256-9575.