Hon. Thomas Brennan dies at age 89

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WMU-Cooley Law School founder and Michigan Supreme Court Justice Thomas E. Brennan, Sr., died peacefully on Sept. 29, surrounded by family.

Born on May 27, 1929 in Detroit, Brennan attended the University of Detroit and earned a J.D. from University of Detroit Law School in 1952. In 1951, he married the love of his life, Pauline (Polly) Weinberger, with whom he had six children.

After failing to attain political office in his early years, Brennan joined the law firm of Waldron, Brennan, Brennan, and Maher, in 1953 and stayed there until his 1961 election the Common Pleas Bench.

He was appointed and then elected to the Wayne County Circuit Bench in 1963, followed by election to the Michigan Supreme Court, where he served as Chief Justice 1969-1970, the youngest in state history.

He founded Thomas M. Cooley Law School in 1972, determined to eradicate academic elitism and make legal education accessible to all capable students.

Brennan was active in many roles at Cooley Law School, retiring in 2002. He also wrote several books.

Brennan was credited with a great intellect, as well as  creativity, charm, and an irrepressible sense of humor tinged with an Irish touch.

“I can only say how lucky and blessed I was to have had the mentorship and encouragement of one of the greatest men that I have ever known,” said Lawrence P. Nolan, WMU-Cooley board chair and a recent president of the State Bar of Michigan. “Tom’s greatest dreams of living a life that was full of grace, truth, and spiritual beliefs inspired all of us to become better people and live fuller lives.”

For those who wish to make donations in the Hon. Thomas Brennan’s name, visit www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/east-lansing-mi/thomas-brennan-8009808

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