Brennan Houghton ____________________________Page

Brennan Houghton stole our hearts with his courage and quiet determination. Brennan lost his six-year battle with cancer in February after being part of the graduating class of 2013. Brennan was first diagnosed in Year 7 with a tumour. He had undergone a variety of surgeries and other treatments. Brennan confronted his illness with extraordinary courage and selflessness. He was determined to attend school, which he loved, until the last stages. Brennan was a gifted student in terms of his academic performance and his intellect was matched with a wry sense of humour. Brennan’s philosophy was to live each day for the present and to its fullness, and be proud of what you have achieved. For those who called Brennan a friend, we have been privileged to have met someone like Brennan along our life’s journey. Brennan has left his legacy with many staff, students, family and friends. We have been fortunate to have shared such a short but special life with Brennan.

Brennan is now in God’s care and his struggle and suffering are over. He has been an inspiration to all those whose lives he has touched and we have all been privileged to have known him. Our deepest condolences and prayers are with his parents Bernadette and Geoff, along with his older brother Patrick and all their extended family and friends. Brennan was, and will always be and example of what all St Joseph’s boys should strive to be: compassionate, sharing and selfless. However Brennan went beyond the expectations of what anyone could truly ask of somebody with these qualities. He always did the best he possibly could and even while unwell, still attended school as much as humanly possible. In addition to being a compassionate, intelligent young man, Brennan also showed us that we should live every day to the fullest and rather than be displeased at what we may not have, be grateful for what we do have. I speak on behalf of everybody when I say that both the St Joseph’s community and all those who knew Brennan have lost a piece of themselves along with him and my heart goes out to the Houghton family and all others who ever knew Brennan. Rest in peace mate, you will always be missed.

Michael Hehir

Mark Turner - Student Education Services Coordinator