Roderick Brennan was born and raised in Brooklyn, NY where he was a lifelong resident. He attended Resurrection Grammar School and was a graduate of James Madison High School. Roderick was drafted into the army in 1965 and dutifully served his country in Vietnam. After his time in the U.S. Army, he returned to Brooklyn where he became a union Journeyman electrician working out of Local 3 in New York City.

Rod was a free spirit who made friends everywhere he went. He was incredibly social and always made conversation with people he encountered in his travels around the city on buses, trains and exploring on his ten speed. He faced every battle with optimism and positivity, always choosing to focus on the brighter side of life. He loved and appreciated the simple pleasures that came with everyday experiences. He was a voracious reader - who devoured novels and the New York Times daily. Rod was a lifelong movie buff who enjoyed the theater and could speak knowledgeably on almost any topic. He followed many sports teams and was a fan of the NY Mets, the NY Giants, and the NY Rangers. He loved to attend live sporting events and had season tickets to the Rangers for many years.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother-in-law, Jerry Rider - to whom he was a favorite travel companion.

Rod is survived by his sister Annmarie Rider, his brother Patrick (Lorraine) Brennan, his daughter Stephanie (Tony) Bauer, with whom he reconnected after her adoption at birth, and his grandson Patrick Bauer. He is fondly missed by all who know him including his five nephews Jerry Rider, Chris (Jennelle) Rider, Matt (Mimi) Rider, Kevin (Gina) Francis, and Tim (Laura) Brennan as well as his great- nieces and nephews Antoinette, Thomas, Kevin, Shea, Maeve, Tucker, Theo, Liam and a plethora of extended family & friends.

He will forever be remembered for his intelligence, humor, generosity, and unique approach to life.

Memorial visitation will be held from 2:00 to 6:00PM on Tuesday, April 7, 2026 at Cusick Funeral Home, 80 Mountain Avenue, Somerville NJ 08876

A prayer service will follow at 6:00PM at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Paralyzed Veterans of America, please see link below.