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BORN
1946
DIED
2018
FUNERAL HOME
Richard O'Brien Obituary
Richard “Rich” O’Brien, 72, a longtime resident of Branford, surrounded by his loving family passed away on Friday, December 21, 2018 at Yale New Haven Hospital. He was the husband of Patricia S. Proto O’Brien. Rich was born in Derby, CT on February 23, 1946 to the late James and Anna Mae Mulcahy O’Brien. Rich was a graduate of NYU Funeral Service and went on to become a Director and Vice President for the W.S. Clancy Memorial Funeral Home in Branford from 1964 to 1984. His last 25 years of employment was with Algonquin Industries of Guilford, until finally retiring in 2009. Richard was also a crossing guard, working an intersection at St. Mary’s School, as well as Eades Street School and worked security at Branford Point for several years. He was a Past President of the Branford Lions Club, receiving both the Knight of the Blind and 2008 Lion of the Year Award. He loved sports and coaching and along with Burt Kahn, founded the Branford Lions Club Basketball Tournament at the community house. He also coached baseball, served on the Branford RTM and volunteered for the Special Olympics.
Besides his wife, he was survived by a son Brendon (Joanna) O’Brien of Guilford, a daughter Erin L. O’Brien of Branford, two grandchildren, Jack and Hayden O’Brien, both of Guilford and a cousin Barbara Stokes of Seymour. Rich was involved in many things during his life but found his greatest joy in watching his grandchildren and their activities. Loved to watch Jack play football and baseball and Hayden play basketball and softball and she was also a fine musician, playing both the flute and saxophone.
There will be a memorial mass at St. Mary’s Church (St. John Bosco Parish) on Thursday morning, December 27, 2018 at 11 am. Burial services will be private and there will be no calling hours. The East Haven Memorial Longobardi – Brennan Funeral Home, 425 Main St., East Haven, 203-467-1708 is in charge of arrangements. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Branford Lions Club, PO Box 406, Branford, 06405 or the Branford Food Pantry (Backpack Program), 30 Harrison Ave., Branford, 06405. Please visit Richard’s memorial page at easthavenmemorial.com and sign his guest book.
Memories and Condolences
for Richard O'Brien
Thomas Jones
October 1, 2019
Wow where did the 50 years go by. I enjoyed the fun times we had. I remember your wedding with Pat. Make every one laugh in heaven. Pat I moved to Fl five years ago so if you wish to visit always have a bedroom for you. Tom Jones
Ronald Bailey
January 12, 2019
A fine gentleman with an engaging sense of humor and always a kind word. You will be missed Rich.
Susan McGowan
December 29, 2018
It is with profound sorrow that I learned the news of Rich's passing. Always a gentleman with a smile and sense of humor, how enjoyable were the many conversations of Irish heritage and patriotism, sharing the joys of raising our children and their school interactions or just running into each other about town! My deepest condolences to Rich's family on the loss of this awesome husband, father, grandfather and friend. Peace and love, Susan McGowan
Christina Alvarez Whaley
December 27, 2018
So very sorry about your Dad. May he rest in peace.
John Barbetti jr
December 27, 2018
Great man and grandfather will be dearly missed by friends and family.RIP
Dennis McGinley
December 27, 2018
I have great memories of Rich going way back to the 70's. I especially loved his quick Irish wit. I enjoyed his company when we worked together at Algonquin Industries in Guilford for many years. I did not see him much over the last few years but when I did see him we had a lot of laughs. He will be missed. My sincere condolences to his entire family and all who were close to him.
JoAnn Brennan
December 26, 2018
Pat, Brendan and Erin My deepest sympathy on Dick's death. He was a dear friend and respected co-worker. I loved having him around. I was a better person because of him. Memories of our travels, ball games, parties and work still make me smile. Health issues prevent me from being with you, but I send you hugs. You are in my prayers.
Kim Sandillo (Carafeno)
December 26, 2018
My condolences to Pat and family. I will always remember what a kind, thoughtful man Richard was. He will be greatly missed. ❤
Jack Laggis
December 26, 2018
Richie great guy always a smile had so many great memories working for his son Brendon he will always be miss God bless the OBrien family
Pam Esposito
December 26, 2018
Dear Pat, Brendon & Erin, My prayers are with all of you in your time of sorrow. I will share in your loss -- as your neighbor, friend and fellow Lion.
Thomas Walsh
December 26, 2018
Have fond memories of working many years with rich at Algonquin Industries.
David Minicozzi
December 26, 2018
Rich was a wonderful man. He had a wry sense of humor and a twinkle in his eye. He was one of the first people I met when I transferred to the Branford Lions Club from New Haven. From that moment forward he always made me feel welcome. His easy manner and friendly demeanor will be missed.
Bill Cusack
December 26, 2018
My friend Rest In Peace
Doug Ammann
December 26, 2018
so sorry to hear of Rich passing. we had many laughs together both on and off the job. Pat, Brendon and Erin, my deepest sympathy to your entire family.
Myra Finger
December 25, 2018
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Donna Folk
December 25, 2018
Brendon I am sorry to hear of your dads passing. This is a tough time for you please know you are in my thoughts and prayers.
James Mendillo
December 25, 2018
Very sorry to hear of our loss of a wonderful Lion and great friend.
He is and will be sorely missed.
RIP my good friend!
Kathi Kroll
December 25, 2018
Ritchie was the funniest guy in town..Tommy and I have been friends with family for over 40 yrs..our kids grew up together and we always loved the O'Bs...St Mary's school will miss his attentiveness to the children..we will miss you Rich..love and smiles Kathi and Tommy Kroll
Matt Bernardi
December 25, 2018
I will always remember Richard for helping me organize my brother Johns bachelor party. I dont know what I would have done without him. Thanks again Richard.
Matt Bernardi
Robert Maars
December 25, 2018
My Condolences to The Family
Kim Gordon-Rippy
December 24, 2018
What a great guy!!! Pat, Brendon and Erin you are in my thoughts and prayers!! Love you!
Arnold Schloemann
December 24, 2018
My condolences go out to the O'Brien Family.I worked a lot with Richard at Clancy Funeral Home while I was a Police Officer.He was a great guy with a good sense of humor and always had a smile.My prayers go out to Richard and his family
Kathy Palaia Hynes
December 24, 2018
Rest In Peace Richie.I remember meeting you for the first time more than 50 years ago.. you were the funniest guy I knew with a heart bigger than life.To Pat, Brendon and Erin, I am truly sorry for your loss. May he live in your hearts forever.
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East Haven Memorial Funeral Home, Inc.425 Main Street, New Haven, CT 06512