RIP: Mr Brennan of Brennans Bread has been laid to rest after passing at age 82

Joesph Brennan, founder of Brennans Bread, has been laid to rest after peacefully passing at age 82. 

Mr Brennan started baking 'today's bread, today' in 1972 and the family-run business remains ever-popular among Irish consumers. 

Fondly known as 'Old Mr Brennan', Joesph (Joe) passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family at his home in Cabinteely, Dublin on May 26. He has since been laid to rest this Thursday, May 30.

Over 50 years ago, Mr Brennan baked the first loaves himself in a one-room bakery in Fumbally Lane, Dublin. Since then, the bakery has moved to Walkinstown and several of his children are company directors. 

Known as a 'great innovator and entrepreneur', Mr Brennan previously featured in radio adverts with his voice and the company has since moved on greatly by embracing new technologies in its production and packaging operations. 

For example, Brennans Bread looks to reduce its carbon footprint and embrace sustainability through the wax paper packaging on a number of its pans, which is 100% recyclable. The company also sends its bread waste to the pig feed industry.

Tributes to the 'kind and gentle' Mr Brennan have poured in, with many remembering him for his 'sharp mind': "Joe was a leader of great determination and with foresight he changed the industry. Admired and respected he will be missed by all," one person wrote.

Another colleague of Mr Brennan wrote: "Joe Brennan was a loyal friend, visionary and colleague, who will be sadly missed by all who knew him."

He is predeceased by his wife Jean and will greatly missed by his children David, Declan, Colm, Suzanne, Deborah, Michelle and Joseph, as well as his grandchildren and great grandchild.