Bowling Green Bids Farewell to Local Veteran John Michael Breen

News Summary

The community of Bowling Green, Kentucky, mourns the loss of John Michael Breen, a beloved local veteran who passed away on March 29, 2025. Breen is remembered for his remarkable dedication to family, country, and his professional career, as well as his active role in community organizations. His legacy will live on in the hearts of those who knew him, especially his family and friends.

Bowling Green Says Goodbye to a Beloved Veteran

The close-knit community of Bowling Green, Kentucky, is mourning the loss of a cherished member, John Michael Breen. He peacefully passed away on March 29, 2025, at the Medical Center Bowling Green, leaving behind a legacy of dedication to family, profession, and country.

A Life Well Lived

Born on August 9, 1944, in Pittsfield, Massachusetts, John was the son of Dr. Joseph Victor Breen and Johanna Marie Van Blerck Breen. His journey began in the picturesque town of Pittsfield, where he graduated from Pittsfield High School before embarking on a new chapter at The TMI School of Transportation in New York.

Service to Country

In 1964, driven by a sense of duty, John joined the United States Army. He went on to earn an outstanding soldier and achievement certificate during his combat training at Fort Dix, New Jersey. Service in the 1st Special Forces, 10th Special Forces Group ABN (commonly known as the Green Berets) filled his years with purpose and honor. He was decorated with the United States National Defense Medal in 1966, a testament to his commitment and bravery, before receiving an honorable discharge in 1970.

A Professional Journey

John’s professional life was as impressive as his military service. He built a lengthy career as a Purchasing/Traffic Manager, immersing himself in supply chain management across various sectors including electronics, steel fabrication, and plastics. Throughout his career, he worked in several cities, making a mark in North Adams, MA, Tucson, AZ, and finally settling in Bowling Green, KY.

His prowess in the field garnered him respect and recognition, including serving as the Past President of the Berkshire County Traffic Association. John’s skills extended beyond the workplace; he played an active role on the Massachusetts Governor’s task force on Economic Development in Berkshire County under Governor Michael Dukakis, further enhancing his reputation as a community leader.

A Family Man

John’s greatest pride came from his family. He was married to his beloved wife, Lynne Denise Breen (née Coughlin), for an incredible 57 years. Their wedding on July 15, 1967, marked the start of a beautiful partnership filled with love and support. Together, they raised two wonderful children: a daughter, Lynne Marie Harting (Michael) residing in Latham, NY, and a son, Michael Dennis Breen (Collette) living in Hendersonville, TN.

His family grew even more special with the arrival of three beloved grandchildren: John Stanley Harting from North Royalton, OH, Grace Elizabeth Harting from Latham, NY, and Berkley Lynne Breen from Hendersonville, TN. Known affectionately as “Gee” to his grandkids, John shared a special bond with each of them, nurturing their dreams and being their biggest cheerleader.

A Deeply Connected Family

John is also survived by his brother, George C. Breen (Pamela) from Orange City, FL, as well as a nephew, two nieces, and two sisters-in-law, adding to the close-knit fabric of family and friendship that he cherished. He was predeceased by his sister, Nancy Victoria McDuffey, and brother, Victor Joseph Breen.

Final Farewell

In line with John’s wishes, the family has chosen cremation as part of their farewell. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place at a later date at St. Ann’s Church in Lenox, Massachusetts. As of now, no additional services are planned.

Gratitude and Remembrance

Grateful for the compassionate care provided to John during his final days, the family extends their heartfelt thanks to the medical staff at the Medical Center. In honor of John, donations may be made to the Gary Sinise Foundation, reflecting his lifelong commitment to helping those who have served in the military.

As Bowling Green remembers John Michael Breen, a husband, father, veteran, and community leader, his profound impact will resonate for years to come. His memory will be cherished in the hearts of all who knew him.

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Additional Resources

• WCLU Radio: John Michael Breen
• Wikipedia: Veteran
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• Google Search: John Michael Breen
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• Google Scholar: Military Service
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• Encyclopedia Britannica: Community Leadership
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• Google News: Bowling Green Kentucky