Eden, Wisconsin
1927 - 2015 (Age 88)
O'Brien, James
James D. O'Brien, age 88, of Eden, went to his Heavenly home on Monday, October 19, 2015 surrounded by his family. Col. Jim was born March 24, 1927 in the Garden of Eden to James H. and Estelle M. O'Brien. Jim and his bride, Helen Mae Perron, were married at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Eden on June 18, 1949. Together they farmed the O'Brien homestead in the town of Eden for nearly 60 years. Working together, they raised 10 children! Jim loved farming and auctioneering, traveling, his deer hunting friends, a good party and singing Irish tunes.
Jim began in the auction business at the age of 18 and spent 60 years as one-half of O'Brien Brothers Auctioneers, selling cattle, farm, and household auctions. In addition, Jim auctioned many years at Midwest Livestock Producers, Lomira, and was a lifelong member of the Wisconsin State and National Auctioneers Association. Jim also served the Ashford Mutual Insurance Company and Mt. Calvary Mutual Insurance Company as a member of the Board of Directors. Jim was a lifelong member of Shepherd of the Hills Parish, a proud member of the Eden Fire Department, announcing the Eden Firemen's parade for 50 years. He also served as a member of the Eden Lions Club, the Knights of Columbus, and the Catholic Order of Foresters.
Jim is survived by his wife, Helen, nine of his ten children: Jean Green and Patty O'Brien of North Fond du Lac; Jim Jr., Dennis and Karen O'Brien, all of Eden; Tim (Corina) O'Brien of Campbellsport; Barbara (Michael) Senn and Chris (Joe) Schiek, both of Fond du Lac; Maureen (Andy) Heimerl of Lester Prairie MN; and his daughter-in-law, Patty Maxia O'Brien of Eden. He is further survived by his sister, Sr. Michaela O'Brien, CSA, his brother Pat (Marilyn) O'Brien, and his brothers-in-law, Willie Gellings and Jerry (Bea) Perron; 24 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren, and many special nieces, nephews, and dear friends.
Jim was preceded in death by his son, Daniel O'Brien; his parents, James and Estelle; three sisters and brothers-in-law - Florence (Frank) Flood, Helen Gellings, and Alice Michels Riegert (Arlyn Michels and Norb Riegert); his brother and sister-in-law, Tom (Coletta) O'Brien; his in-laws, Leo and Esther Perron, brother-in-law, John Perron, and sister and brother -in-law Jane (Art) Ambroso.
Visitation will be held on Friday, October 23, 2015 from 2:00-7:00 pm at Shepherd of the Hills Catholic Parish, Eden, and again from 9:00 am until time of service on Saturday, October 24. A Mass of Christian burial will be held at 10:30 am at the Church, Fr. Charlie Wester officiating. Burial will follow at St. Mary's Cemetery, Eden. Twohig Funeral Home is serving the family with online guestbook and condolences at www.twohigfunerals.com.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Shepherd of the Hills Catholic Parish or the Agnesian HealthCare Foundation. The family wishes to express its sincere gratitude to the staff of Agnesian HealthCare and the St. Francis Home for their warmth and caring during Jim's brief illness.
So sorry to hear of Jim's passing. One of my fondest memories as a kid was eating supper at your house, I loved your big family and all the commotion that went with it. Bless you all.
Carla Johnson (Stroh)
November 25, 2015
My sympathy to the O'Brien family. It is hard to lose a husband/dad. May he rest in peace.
Roxanne Garfoot (nee Rozek)
October 26, 2015
I Know the pain and loss of a Dear loved one is great now, James is in his final reward. Words could never express the Joy to be In God presents and our family member that wait for us. Be strong for GOD Loves you and is always with you,
Robert Maxia
October 23, 2015 | Fond Du Lac, WI
O'Brien family-- Thinking of you in this time of loss. Grandpa Murphy loved clerking auctions with Jim and Pat more than anything! You are in my prayers!
Erin Murphy
October 23, 2015 | Fond Du Lac, WI
My sympathy on the death of Jim. My prayers for all the family.
Kathy O'Brien
October 22, 2015 | Erwin, TN
My thoughts and prayers are with you during this time Jean and family. God's love and comfort be with you all.
Sue Dammen
October 22, 2015 | Beloit, WI
O'Brien Family,
Deepest sympathy to your family.
Lynn Condreay (Oestreich)
October 22, 2015 | Sun Prairie, WI
O'Brien Family,
My deepest sympathy on the passing of Jim--A great Auctioneer, A great Irishman. I remember the good times at the Wisconsin Auctioneers meetings--good memories. Our Prayers & thoughts are with you.
Bob Gavin, Gavin Bros Auctioneers--Reedsburg, WI
October 22, 2015
Jeannie - I am so sorry to hear of your father's passing. It is so hard to lose a loved one and it seems they should live forever. You are in my prayers and thoughts at this time.
Kathie Anderson-Mueller
October 22, 2015 | Appleton, WI
