Richard D. Brennan

Richard D. Brennan, 73, passed away in his home surrounded by his beloved family on December 21, 2021. Born in Loves Park, Illinois on January 12, 1948 son to Gaylord and Evelyn (James) Brennan. Richard unknowingly met the love of his life, Sheryl Miller, at the age of six and they wed in Rockford on November 18, 1967. In 1968 he was drafted into the U.S Army and served in Viet Nam until 1970. After returning he started working at Chrysler and retired after 35 years in 2001. Always keeping busy, he continued working for Rockford Health System formally known as Rockford Memorial in their Guest Center for their maintenance and repairs for an additional 12 years. He loved working with his hands, creating things like furniture and later in life forging knives. He also enjoyed golfing, going to car shows with his son Chad, and traveling. Richard and Sheryl were able to visit numerous countries, the Grand Alpine Explorer Tour they both enjoyed, and some cruises are some of the many fond memories for the family.
He will be survived by those who loved him most, his wife of 54 years, Sheryl; his sons Chad and Jeffrey; his grandchildren Colin (Paige), Garrett and one great grandchild on the way; his sister Christine (Jack) Anderson; nephews Thomas and David Anderson. He is predeceased by his parents.
A celebration of Richards’s life will take place on January 22, 2022 at 2:00 p.m. through 5:00 p.m. at Prairie Street Brewing Co, 200 Prairie Street, Rockford, Illinois 61107. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family to be established at a later date. To send online condolences, please visit www.fitzgeraldfh.com