Edward Breen Obituary

Edward Charles Breen
Born: January 7, 1937
Died: March 10, 2026
Edward Charles Breen, age 89, of Lemont, passed away peacefully in his home on March 10th, 2026, following a long illness. Known lovingly as "Eddie" by family and friends, he was born in Park Ridge, Illinois to Edward and Mildred Breen, and grew up in LaGrange, Illinois.
A third-generation graduate of Lyons Township High School, Class of 1955, it was there that Eddie's lifelong passion for mechanics and anything on two to eight wheels first took hold. That passion never left him. Over the years, he built an impressive collection of race cars, hot rods, boats, motorcycles, and gas station collectibles – a testament to a man who truly loved the open road and the beauty of a well-built machine. Eddie also had a deep love for animals, lovingly caring for an array of birds including swans, peacocks, and imported Canadian ducks, as well as a prized koi fish pond, and his sweet canine companion of the last 7 years, Harley. In his free time, Eddie could often be found with his family enjoying the waters of Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, and in later years, the peaceful shores of Lake Holiday, Illinois.
A third-generation co-owner of Breen's Cleaners and later Breen's Uniform Rental, Eddie dedicated his entire working life to the family business, pouring his heart into it every day.
Eddie is survived by his beloved children, Charlene (Gene) Needles, Edward L. Breen II (Beth Davis), and Koko (Tom) Bellamy; five grandchildren, Alex Needles, Coleman (Molly) Needles, Paige Needles, Christian Davis, and Carson Bellamy; and one great-grandson, Sullivan "Sully" Needles.
He was the cherished brother of Robert Breen and was preceded in death by his sister, Barbara Smid.
Eddie will be deeply missed by all who knew him – remembered for his love of family, his passion for all things mechanical, and a life well and fully lived.
Services and interment private.
Memorials in Eddie's memory may be made to the
American Stroke Association.