Edward Charles "Eddie" Breen

Edward Charles Breen, age 89, of Lemont, passed away peacefully at home on March 10, 2026, following a long illness. Known lovingly as “Eddie” to family and friends, he was born in Park Ridge, Illinois, to Edward and Mildred Breen and grew up in LaGrange. A third-generation graduate of Lyons Township High School, Class of 1955, Eddie discovered his lifelong passion for mechanics and anything on two to eight wheels during his school years, a love that remained with him throughout his life.

Over the decades, he built an impressive collection of race cars, hot rods, boats, motorcycles, and gas station memorabilia, reflecting his deep appreciation for the open road and finely engineered machines. Eddie also cherished animals, tenderly caring for swans, peacocks, imported Canadian ducks, a prized koi pond, and his devoted dog of seven years, Harley. He found great joy in spending time with his family on the waters of Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, and later along the tranquil shores of Lake Holiday, Illinois.

A third-generation co-owner of Breen’s Cleaners and later Breen’s Uniform Rental, Eddie devoted his entire career to the family business, working with quiet dedication and pride.

He is survived by his 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 remembered fondly for his love of family, his passion for all things mechanical, and a life fully and generously lived.