Joseph G. Breen

Joseph Gerard Breen, age 87, of Bel Air, MD passed away on September 11, 2021. He was the oldest son of John Joseph and Mary Theresa Breen and husband of Marie Theresa Breen. Joseph was born and raised in Philadelphia. He earned his bachelor’s degree from La Salle University. He was proud to have served in the U.S. Navy, first aboard the USS Wasp (CVA-18), then the USS Hancock (CVA-19). He often reminisced about his time aboard the aircraft carriers. Upon moving to Maryland in 1971, he continued working around ships, first working for Seatrain and later Puerto Rico Marine Management Inc. Joe, as he was known to family and friends, was considered an interesting character, often thought of as one of a kind. He loved geography and history and would amaze people from foreign lands with his in-depth knowledge of their native country. Though set in his ways, Joe was good natured and would never say no when someone needed a favor. He would show unsolicited acts of kindness to strangers and people in need.

Joseph was a caring father to Christine and husband Daniel Cole of Forest Hill, Carol and husband Bob Townsend of Abingdon, and Janet Breen of Forest Hill. He was known as Pop to his grandchildren, James Townsend, Brady Townsend, Daniel Cole, Brendan Cole, Taylor Lambert and husband Kevin and recently became a great grandfather to Thomas Cole. He is survived by two siblings, John Breen, Jr. and Theresa Mulkeen.

In addition to his parents and wife, he was preceded in death by his siblings, Jane Purcell, Marie O'Donnell, Gerard Breen and Clair Heil.

To honor Joe, in lieu of flowers, please make contributions to The Little Sisters of the Poor, 601 Maiden Choice Lane, Catonsville, MD 21228.