Joseph M. Brennan

Joseph Michael Brennan, beloved father, passed away on August 11, 2024, in the care of his loving daughters and sons. 

Born August 21, 1945, son of Mary Louise Brennan and James E. Brennan, Jr., Joseph graduated Shaker High School class of 1963 and Colgate University class of 1967. Joseph went on to graduate Albany Law School class of 1970 and began a prolific career as an attorney. Joseph worked in the office of the Albany County Public Defender for many years, even as his private law practice flourished, and provided valuable representation to many who otherwise would not have had it. Joseph's private practice of law began at Sullivan, Rehfuss, Cunningham and Brennan. Later, the firm divided, creating Brennan, Rehfuss and Liguori. Joseph was a skilled trial attorney and appellate advocate in the courts of New York State as well as the Federal courts. Joseph also lent his talents to many community organizations, but perhaps most notably Albany Community Action Partnership. During Joseph's tenure as president of the board, this organization was transformed. The final stop on Joseph's career path was the Albany Housing Authority. True to his lifelong character, Joseph found himself devoted to the projects and people there and had a difficult time finally retiring after nearly five decades in the practice of law. 

Joseph married the love of his life, Melody Hilt, on July 8, 1967. The family they made together was his greatest joy. He dedicated himself to Melody and the varied pursuits of his four children. Despite his professional and community service undertakings, Joseph was present at innumerable swim meets, art shows, soccer games and tae kwon do tournaments. 

Joseph was a standout three-sport athlete in high school, excelling at soccer, swimming and track and he would go on to play all three sports in college. Joseph ran, swam, cycled and hiked throughout his life, completing seven marathons, 39 Adirondack high peaks, multiple triathlons and more cycling events than can be recounted. His ambition for adventure led him and Melody to complete a 3,000 mile tour of the US in 2011, beginning in San Diego, CA and ending in Narragansett, RI, where the family enjoyed many summers. Joseph and Melody celebrated their 50th anniversary by taking a bike tour in Provence, France. 

Joseph's spirit is now with Melody's in peace, and he is survived by his children: Aindrea Richard (Gaven Richard), Cailin Brennan (Stanley Penc), Eamonn Brennan (Courtney Iwasaki), Liam Brennan as well as his grand children: Graham, Roland and Roxana Richard and Kian and Connor Gilmore. He is also survived by his brother: John Brennan and Joseph's many nieces and nephews, cousins and friends. His entire family and his many friends will miss him dearly and cherish his memory. 

The family wishes to extend thanks to Dr. Mohamad Younes and to Community Hospice for their care and compassion. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Community Hospice. 

The family will receive visitors at Applebee Funeral Home, 403 Kenwood Ave, Delmar, NY 12054 on Sunday, August 25, 2024 from 5 pm to 7pm. A memorial service will be held immediately after, at 7 pm at the funeral home.