William J. Brennan Jr, 70, passed away Friday, October 30 2015 at the University of Pennsylvania Hospital, in Philadelphia. Born and raised in Trenton, he moved to Bordentown in 1989 to be with the love of his life, Linda.
Bill was an altar boy, pupil and member of the Church of the Blessed Sacrament. He attended Trenton Catholic Boy's High School and graduated in 1963 from Cathedral High School. He went on to earn his B.A. in History from Seton Hall University. In 1977, he obtained his M.A. in Public Administration from Rider College.
He was an Army Veteran of the Vietnam War. Bill served his country as an Infantry Unit Commander and was awarded both the Army Commendation and Bronze Star medals. He was honorably discharged in 1970 with the rank of 1st Lieutenant.
Following in his father's footsteps, Bill built a career working for the State of New Jersey. He started as a claims investigator with the Department of Law and Public Safety, Division of Law. After his office transferred to the Department of Treasury, Division of Risk Management, Bill made his way up the ranks to Deputy Director and retired in 2010.
Bill was an avid reader which allowed him the ability to converse on many topics. He enjoyed discussions about Trenton's neighborhoods, historical topics, the Phillies, the Jersey shore and so much more. Everyone learned something new after spending time with him.
Always a giving person, Bill made sure to place his priorities on those around him. He will always be remembered fondly and with love as a very devoted husband, parent, grandfather and friend.
Son of the late William J. & Helena Kelty Brennan, he was predeceased by his brother, James J. Brennan. Bill is survived by his beloved wife, Linda Brennan; his son and daughter-in-law, Jim and Kacey Mitchell of Pine Plains, New York; loving grandchildren Patrick and Maegan Mitchell; Brother-in-law Roger Shedlock of Meansville, GA; sister-in-law Nancy Ellis of Seminole, FL; a niece and several nephews; many friends made during the course of a fine career; buddies from the old neighborhood and his special canine companion, Winston.
Services will be held 11:30 am Thursday, November 5, 2015 at the Peppler Funeral Home, 122 Crosswicks St, Bordentown NJ. Interment will follow at Brigadier General William C. Doyle Veteran Cemetery, Wrightstown. Friends may call Wednesday evening from 6pm until 8pm at the funeral home. Due to cemetery restrictions, in lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made in William's name to a charity of the donor's choice.