Todd S. Brethauer, CDR, USN Retired

Todd Brethauer, longtime resident of McLean, Virginia, died January 20, 2026, after a short illness. He was born February 21, 1952 in Frederick, Maryland, and grew up in Downers Grove, Illinois. He earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Chemical Engineering and a Master’s Degree in Plant Pathology from the University of Illinois.

He joined the Navy in 1977, attending Officer Candidate School. Eleven years in submarines, including sea duty on the U.S.S. Puffer, and the U.S.S. Birmingham, were followed by eleven in naval intelligence, with tours on the U.S.S Carl Vinson, and the U.S.S. Abraham Lincoln, and several shore assignments. He deployed six times to the Western Pacific and the Persian Gulf. He was a Distinguished Graduate of the National War College at Fort McNair, earning a Master’s Degree in International Security. After retiring as a Commander in 1999, he worked for the Combatting Terrorism Technology Support Office in the Washington area.

Todd was a devoted reader, especially of scientific journals. He volunteered for many years at the U.S. Botanic Garden near the Capitol. He presented public education programs there on a range of topics, including orchids, spices, sugarcane, and Hawaiian plants. He also did informal hands-on presentations aimed at encouraging the next generation to pursue careers in science. He enjoyed growing chrysanthemums, and for many years was an active member of the Old Dominion Chrysanthemum Society.

He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Caroline; sons Andrew Brethauer and William Brethauer; and siblings Robin Lippoldt, Karen Brethauer, and Troy Brethauer.

His funeral will be held at St. Dunstan’s Episcopal Church, 1830 Kirby Road, McLean, on Friday, January 30, at 10:00 A.M., with ashes interred after the service in the church’s Memorial Garden. Because of his fondness for reading, the family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to your local public library