Jean Ann O'Brien

Jean Ann O'Brien Battle Creek Jean Ann O'Brien, 66, died peacefully on Saturday, January 30, 2010 at Bronson Methodist Hospital. She was born in Battle Creek on September 16, 1943 the daughter of Fred and Minnie (Ewald) Barthel and graduated from Lakeview High School in 1961. Jean married Jerry E. O'Brien Sr. on August 10, 1963 at the St. Paul Lutheran Church in Battle Creek; he survives. She is also survived by her children, Jerry E. (Karen) O'Brien Jr. of Battle Creek, Teresa K. (Rick) Williams of Battle Creek, Rob T. (Debbie) O'Brien of Richland and Amy C. (Tim) Easler of Marshall; her grandchildren, Megan O'Brien, Sean O'Brien, Rick Williams, Josh Williams, Tyler Williams, Jessica Clute, Ashlee O'Brien and Thomas O'Brien. Jean was preceded in death by a son, Timothy O'Brien; 2 sisters, Bert Sawdey, Gladys VanNortwick and a brother, Ed Barthel. Jean was a very active member of Redemption Lutheran Church where she served as Activities Director for many years. She had a great sense of humor and was an avid gardener and cook. Jean also enjoyed reading, volunteering at her church and her children's schools, working area elections and spending time with her wonderful family. At the request of the family, they will receive friends 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., today, February 2, 2010 at the Farley-Estes & Dowdle Funeral Home. Funeral services to celebrate Jean's life will be held 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, February 3, 2010 at the Redemption Lutheran Church, 2450 W. Michigan Ave., Battle Creek, with Pastor Karl Strenge, officiating. Interment will follow at Hicks Cemetery. Memorials may be made to Redemption Lutheran Church, the American Cancer Society or the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. Personal messages for the family may be placed at www.farleyestesdowdle.com.