Columbus, OH — Bernard Francis Brennan, VMD, 97, of Hobe Sound, Fla., died April 26, 2019, surrounded by his loving family and friends following a stroke on April 16.

He was born in Plainfield, N.J., the youngest of three sons of Irish immigrants, Martin Brennan and Elizabeth (nee) O’Shea.

Dr. Brennan was a true gentleman who inspired all who knew him with his patience, kindness, humility and humor. A graduate of the University of South Dakota (1943) and University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine (1946), he began his veterinary practice in Aiken, S.C. In 1953 he moved to Westbury, N.Y., where he established his equine practice at Roosevelt Raceway where he was supervising veterinarian and opened a surgical hospital.

Dr. Brennan was an active member of the American Association of Equine Practitioners since its founding in 1954 and served as its president in 1979. He held professional leadership positions in both the New York and New Jersey State Veterinary Associations.

He was a long standing member of the Knights of Columbus. He enjoyed sports both as an athlete and an avid fan, especially horse racing, football and baseball. He enjoyed golf in his retirement and was a member of the Lost Lake Country Club in Hobe Sound, Fla.

He is mourned by his surviving children, Barbara Ford, Elizabeth (Robert) Wentzell, Bernard F. Jr., Mary Christine (Bruce) Hagy, Michael (Gayle), Patrick, Nancy, and Brian (Amanda); as well as 21 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 63 years, Florence Thorson Brennan; and daughters, Constance, Theresa and Maureen.

Visitation will take place Thursday (May 2) from 2-4 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. at Donohue Cecere Funeral Home, 290 Post Avenue, Westbury. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11 a.m. on Friday (May 3) at St. Brigid’s Church, 75 Post Avenue, Westbury, N.Y. Burial follows at Holy Rood Cemetery, Westbury.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital (www.stjude.org) or to the American Association of Equine Practitioners Foundation. Foundation. (www.AAEP.org).