Former Michigan Teamsters President Lawrence “Larry” Brennan died on November 23 at his home in Howell, Michigan following a long battle with cancer. He was 88.

Brennan was the son of Owen “Bert” Brennan, one of the three founders of the Detroit Teamsters during the depression years of the 1930s and founder of Local 337 in Detroit.

It was at Local 337 where Larry Brennan built his reputation as an organizer and tough negotiator becoming the local President in 1989. He later served as President of the Michigan Teamsters and held various positions in the international union, including director of the Teamster Warehouse Division. Brennan retired from the Teamsters in 2013.

Brennan was an imposing figure at six feet three inches and was known for his gruff exterior but also known for his soft spot for dogs, horses and union members and friends in need. Larry was deeply involved in the Michigan harness racing industry and bred many successful trotters.

Larry is survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Sarah, his sons Brandt and James, daughters Kathy, Karen and Kim and ten grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donation be made to: Canine Unit c/o Livingston County Office of the Sheriff, 304 E. Grand River, Howell, MI 48843.

• Share on Facebook
• Share on Twitter
• Share via email