Gary P. O'Brien

Gary P. O’Brien passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Saturday, July 20, 2024. He was the beloved husband of 64 years to the late Joanne R. (Myers) O’Brien, also of Berlin, MA. His legacy lives on through his daughters and their spouses, Kathleen and David Cassidy of Westford, MA, and Maureen and Joseph of The Villages, FL, and his sons and their spouses, Daniel and Lee O’Brien of Lunenburg, MA, Timothy and Karen O’Brien of Coconut Creek, FL, and Michael and Ann O’Brien of Worcester, MA. He leaves behind his grandchildren: Kendra, Kelly, Kyle, Jessica, Corey, Joey, Brendon, Katie, and Erin; his great-grandchildren: Corbin, Mina, and Cameron; as well as several nieces, nephews, cousins, and cherished friends. He was predeceased by his siblings, Gordon, Ralph, Ernest, James, Arthur, Nona, Ouida, and Lillian.

Born to the late Arthur and Eula (Burmeister) O’Brien in Madison, WI, Gary attended Madison High School. After graduating, he relocated to Fullerton, CA, where he met the love of his life, Joanne. They were married on April 27, 1957 and started their family in Huntington Beach, CA and lived there for 15 years. The family then moved to Palatine, IL, for two years before settling in Miami Lakes, FL, until 1983. They eventually made their way north to Marlboro, MA, where they lived for 20 years before moving to Berlin, MA, where they have resided for the past 21 years.

Gary was a master builder, whose powerful hands and keen mind helped construct not only a beautiful family but also several iconic buildings in Boston and the surrounding area: such as the TD Garden, Copley Place, The Esplanade, and Providence Place. His contributions to the city's skyline are a testament to his dedication, hard work, and skill.

While his children were growing up, Gary was a coach for baseball, football, and basketball through the Miami Lakes Optimist Club. He guided and taught young boys the intricacies of the sport while also serving as a mentor and father figure during difficult times. His influence extended far beyond the playing fields, shaping the lives of countless young men.

Gary was known for his vibrant personality and infectious spirit. He never met a stranger, and his laughter could fill a room. The O’Brien family gatherings were legendary, filled with laughter, stories, food, drinks, and competitive games. Gary was the life of the party, always ready with a joke or a kind word along with his eclectic playlists.

As a grandfather and great-grandfather, Gary was a devoted and proud Papa. He celebrated the successes of his grandchildren with boundless joy, often bragging about their accomplishments to anyone who would listen. His homemade birthday cards were crafted with care and creativity. During Christmas he brought laughter and excitement, rapidly passing gifts creating a whirlwind of joy under a meticulously decorated tree. His love and pride were evident in every interaction, every twist of the ear of one of his “bosco or corkers”, leaving behind a legacy of love, humor, and countless treasured memories.

Gary P. O’Brien’s life was a testament to the duality of strength and kindness, power and gentleness. He showed his family that it is possible to be both strong and compassionate, leaving behind a legacy of love and respect. He will be deeply missed but forever remembered.

There will be a private family service for the Celebration of Gary’s Life. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: 

St. Jude's Hospital

American Heart Association