April 24, 1933 – May 31, 2025

Cornelius Patrick Brennan — known to all as Neil — passed away peacefully on May 31, 2025, in Vernon, B.C., at the age of 92. He leaves behind a life well-lived and a family he was deeply proud of.

Born the youngest of eight children on a potato farm in Johnville, New Brunswick, on April 24, 1933, Neil grew up under the loving care of his father and older siblings after his mother passed when he was just three. Though he ventured west, Neil’s maritime roots remained close to his heart — and so did potatoes.

A sharp mind and a love of numbers propelled him through school: Bath High School (1949), St. Francis Xavier University (1952), and Nova Scotia Tech (1954), where he graduated as a Civil Engineer. His first job took him to Dawson Creek, B.C. with Bell Canada to help build the Mid-Canada Line — and more importantly, it led him to the first love of his life, Margaret Jane “Peggy” Patterson. They married in 1957, and soon after Neil traded engineering blueprints for haberdashery, joining Peggy’s family in their men’s wear business. He worked happily alongside the Patterson clan until his retirement in 1999.

Neil was a pillar of the Dawson Creek community — an avid golfer, fisherman, hunter, card shark, and a man of deep faith. His quiet wit, unwavering integrity, and uncanny knack for winning local raffles made him a well-loved figure about town.

Neil was predeceased by his beloved Peggy in 2002 and by his seven siblings.

Neil found joy again with the second love of his life, Iris Brittain(Kennedy), whom he married in 2007 and with whom he shared his later years.

He leaves behind his wife Iris; his children Patrick (Tracy), Diane Vertz (Ron), and Daniel (Janet); nine grandchildren; twelve great-grandchildren and approximately sixty nieces and nephews — all of whom made him immensely proud.

Neil kept his sharp mind and aptitude for numbers right to the end. He leaves behind a legacy of love, loyalty and quiet wisdom that will live on through his family and all who had the good fortune to know him.

In his honour, the family encourages you to raise a glass, play a hand of cards, or buy a raffle ticket — just don’t be surprised if Neil still manages to win from above.

A prayer service will take place at Our Lady of the Valley Catholic Church on Monday, June 9^th  2025 at 7:00pm. Mass will be celebrated for Neil the following day, Tuesday June 10^th  2025,  at Our Lady of the Valley at 11:00am, with a reception to follow.

Arrangements in care of Pleasant Valley Funeral Home, Vernon B.C. 250-542-4333