Teamsters Remember Larry Brennan

Former Michigan Teamsters President Lawrence “Larry” Brennan died on November 23 at his home in Howell, Mich. following a long battle with cancer. He was 88. Brennan was the son of Owen “Bert” Brennan, one of the three founders (along with James R. Hoffa) 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 with the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, including Director of the Warehouse Division. Brennan retired from the Teamsters in 2013.

Brennan was an imposing figure and was known for his gruff exterior but also for his soft spot for dogs, horses, union members and friends in need.

Brennan is survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Sarah, his sons Brandt and James, daughters Kathy, Karen and Kim, and 10 grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

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