Lillian M. Brennan

Lillian “Lil” M. Brennan, age 98, of Glen Ellyn.

We said goodbye to Lil—Ma to some, Nana to many—on Sunday, October 6, 2024. She was the loving wife of the late Jack Brennan, and a devoted mother to the late Rodger Vetter, Jeff Vetter, the late Jill (late - Bill) Sutek , Ronald Vetter, Kathleen (late - Tim) Olsen, and Joyce (Ivan) Gati. She was also a caring stepmother to John Brennan, Kim (Vic) McFadden, and Denise (Russ) Brennan-Hegg.

Nana was deeply loved by her grandchildren: Shane (Lori) Vetter, Rodger Sutek, Kevin Vetter, Kim (RosCeo) Hiner, Kyle Olsen, Melissa Blach, Tiffany (Brian) Bloshenko, Tyler Blach, Eric (Tiffany) Gati, Melissa (John) Gati,  Kyle (Becky) Gati,Karli (Steve) Loeppert, Emily (Josh) Adams, Kelli Kobayashi, Cullen Kobayashi, Kevin Kobayashi, Brennan (Sierra) Currier, and Brittany Currier.  She also leaves behind great-grandchildren: Taylor, Sabrina, Jackson, Jacob, Jace, Ethan, Carter, Margot, Matthijs, Willow, Trey, Bill, Eleanor, Ashlynn, Kaison, Annabelle, Stevie Marie, Mila, Maya, Arlo, and Wilder who were so lucky to be loved by her. 

To say Ma lived a full life would be an understatement. Yes, she was with us until 98-years-old, but it still feels like we didn’t have enough time with her. She was one of the strongest women we, and likely many others, have ever known. We feel so fortunate to have been loved by her. She was brave, sweet, and as tough as needed! In her 80s, she was still taking the Metra train into downtown by herself, she drove until she was almost 95, and lived independently leading up to her passing. Her sharp mind and fierce independence was impressive and such an inspiration. 

Lil cherished conversations with family. Though her delivery could be blunt at times, it was always honest, and you knew exactly where you stood with her. She had no problem reminding you when it was time to say goodbye and see you to the door—a solid skill she managed to pass down to some of us Midwesterners! She was always so thrilled to spend time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and was dedicated to making sure she listened, and knew each one of them. What a gift that many of her great-grandchildren had her well into their twenties. 

Raising six children on her own in the city, was no small feat, but Ma did it with grace and determination. Later in life, she found joy in traveling with her husband, Jack, and extended family, especially to Branson, Missouri, and parts of Wisconsin. She also loved visiting Navy Pier—a favorite spot of hers. She appreciated good food, a solid cup of coffee, and just being in the presence of her loved ones.  Throughout her life, she remained open-hearted and accepting of everyone she met, teaching us all to stay true to who we are. She was a shining example of truth and acceptance. 

Nana, we will miss you dearly. You left a lasting mark on our lives, and we are forever grateful for the love, wisdom, and strength you gave us. We are all so proud to be of you. We will carry your memory and joyfully pass your stories down for generations to come. 

Per Lil’s wishes there will be no formal services. A family gathering will take place at a later date.

To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Lillian M. Brennan, please visit our Tree Store.