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
- WCLU Radio: Brown Sports Bag 390
- Google Search: John Michael Breen
- WCLU Radio: Video Maclean Lessenberry Talks Small Business Saturday
- Google Scholar: Military Service
- WCLU Radio: Henry Thomas Goat Byrd
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Community Leadership
- WCLU Radio: Gallery Trojans Drop District Opener at Warren East 64-50
- Google News: Bowling Green Kentucky
Author: STAFF HERE BOWLING GREEN WRITER
The BOWLING GREEN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBowlingGreen.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Bowling Green, Warren County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the National Corvette Homecoming, International Festival, concerts at SKyPAC, and sports events at Beech Bend Park. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce and the African American Museum Bowling Green Area, plus leading businesses in automotive, apparel, and healthcare that power the local economy such as General Motors Corvette Assembly Plant, Fruit of the Loom, and Med Center Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERELexingtonKY.com and HERELouisville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Kentucky's dynamic landscape.
