James J. Brennan, 67, longtime ad salesman

James J. Brennan, 67, of South Philadelphia, a longtime advertising salesman for The Inquirer, died Friday, Feb. 3, at home of complications from Alzheimer's disease.

Mr. Brennan was a Mummer, a traveler, and a Civil War buff, but above all, he was a skilled salesman and devoted family man.

"He could sell ice to Eskimos," said his wife, the former Jacqueline Bonanno. "He was the love of my life."

"The sun really did rise and set in my father's eyes," said his daughter, Jennifer Brennan Matteo. "He was my hero, my first love."

Mr. Brennan graduated from what was then Bishop Neumann High School, now SS. Neumann-Goretti High, then went to work at The Inquirer, starting in ad production and working his way up to outside sales. Among his clients were colleges and universities. He put together the paper's Education Guide in 2001.

He retired later that year.

Mr. Brennan met his future wife in 1973, when both worked in the newspaper's advertising department. They married in 1981. His wife had three children from a previous marriage, and Mr. Brennan adopted them.

Mr. Brennan and his wife went to Las Vegas, where he liked to test his luck and skill at the blackjack table, a number of times. They also took several cruises, including to the Caribbean and once to Alaska.

Mr. Brennan marched with the Shooting Stars fancy brigade for about 20 years.

He and his wife visited Gettysburg several times for battle reenactments. He also liked to read histories of the war.

In retirement, he enjoyed working out and doing aerobics at a gym.

Besides his wife and daughter, he is survived by sons James J. Jr. and Steven; a sister; two brothers; and six grandchildren. A brother, Roger Brennan, preceded him in death.

Viewings are set for 7 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 7, and 8 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 8, at the Monti-Rago Funeral Home, 2533 S. Broad St. A Funeral Mass will be 9:30 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 8, at Epiphany of Our Lord Roman Catholic Church, 11th and Jackson Streets. Burial will be in SS. Peter and Paul Cemetery, Marple.

Memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer's Association, 399 Market St., Suite 102, Philadelphia 19106.