Richard Thomas Brennan, Jr.

Birth date: Aug 15, 1968 Death date: May 13, 2021

** Due to connectivity issues at the venue, Rick’s service was recorded and has been posted to his Tribute Page under the "Photos and Videos" tab ** Richard T. Brennan, Jr. was born in Corpus Christi, Texas to Richard (Dick) T. B Read Obituary

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Denise Harrington

213w ago

Rick had an incredible impact on me and my children. From the moment he took me (and my son for a tour) aboard Ship Rainier as a new Teacher at Sea, to the day he helped my daughter network for a job as a fish observer out of Dutch Harbor this year, he has inspired us to understand all the work NOAA does and to participate in it. I have learned to write better, work harder, and enjoy moments of reflection. He reinvigorated me as a teacher, and helped my daughter get off her feet as a nascent marine biologist. I have no doubt that her interest in the career was fueled in part by all I learned from him aboard Ship Rainier and the support he gave her as she looked for work. He will be missed.

Jacklyn James

223w ago

in honor of Richard.

A lighted pale blue candle with a small white flower and a few leaves at its base, set against a soft blue background.

Dan Herlihy

228w ago

Shocked and saddened to hear of Rick’s passing. Literally just a month ago I saw with great pride that he had been promoted to RDML and assigned as Director, C&GS. I was Rick’s second and longest lasting CO aboard the RUDE and I could see right off that he had the talent and drive for an outstanding NOAA Corps career. I pushed Rick hard as one often does with the most talented and he never let me down. We sailed for almost a year with only three officers which meant even more work than usual aboard the RUDE for the two junior officers. Rick was an excellent hydrographer and an equally excellent ship handler. Later on it was no surprise to see his assignments as CO of the RUDE and RAINIER, both positions that I was also privileged to hold. I can say from experience that there is no tougher job in the NOAA fleet than CO of the RAINIER and I know Rick excelled there just as he did throughout all his NOAA Corps assignments. Rick was an outstanding officer and shipmate. My deepest condolences to Tracey and their two sons.

The photo below is on of my NOAA favorites showing a very young Rick as the RUDE’s bull ensign immediately following the ship’s change of command from Nick Perugini to myself…April 1993 in Newport, R.I. The two officers to Rick’s right are Tom Niichel (XO) and Todd Haupt.

Dan Herlihy, Captain, NOAA (Retired)

Mike Torrusio

229w ago

Rick was a great sailing buddy and a great friend. Not only did we share boat delivery adventures, but Tracy and my wife went to university together, and we spend many a day sharing meals and good times.
He will be so very sorely missed.

Rick Spinrad

230w ago

in honor of Richard.

My wife and I send our most sincere condolences to the Brennan family. Rick was a stalwart member of the NOAA community and will be remembered fondly. May he Rest In Peace.

Rick and Alanna Spinrad

A lit candle with a soft flame, surrounded by small white flowers and green leaves, set against a warm yellow background.

Lasting Tributes

230w ago

Created a new album - Rick's Memorial Service.

Todd Bridgeman

230w ago

To the Brennan family. We are heartbroken for the loss of Rick and send you our sympathy. We are thankful for Rick’s friendship, his leadership, and all he did for NOAA and the Nation. His tremendous impact on all of us, and the organization he loved, form a lasting legacy and exemplify the truly special person he was. May his life be an inspiration to us all. Our deepest condolences.

Rafael Amaro

230w ago

Mi más sentidas condolencias a la familia de nuestro hermano Richard Thomas Brennnan, también a los integrantes de THSOA.
Su contribución a los estudios Hidrográficos a permitido desarrollar mejor, nuestra visión, mejor interés y mejor dedicación al tema marítimo.
Ha sido una bendición haberte conocido.
Siempre lo recordaré y lo llevaré en lo mas profundo de mi corazón
Desde Perú : UN ABRAZO HASTA EL CIELO RICK.

Rafael Amaro

230w ago

in honor of Richard.

A pale pink candle with a lit flame, surrounded by small white flowers and a purple bud against a soft pink background.

Karen Hyun

230w ago

We will all miss you immensely Admiral Brennan and your light will shine on forever at NOAA. Rest in peace, Karen Hyun

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