MSgt. Donald O'Reilly

MSGT. DONALD O'REILLY U.S. Air Force, Retired After a long, valiant struggle against cancer, Donald B. O'Reilly, 87, of Oceanside, Calif., passed away Sunday, April 20, 2008. Don was born Oct. 30, 1920, in Waterbury, Conn. He attenced school in Connecticut, and later made his residence in Waterbury. Don enlisted in the U.S. Army Air Force in 1942, and subsequent to his World War II service, was assigned to the Berlin Air Lift in 1949. Upon his return to the United States, he was stationed in Big Spring, Texas. At that time, he became engaged to Dorothy Bernier, a former classmate and family friend, reunited at a class reunion in 1950! They were married in St. Anne's French Church in Waterbury, and subsequently left to take up residence in Big Spring, Texas. From then on, it was a fulfilling military family life until Don's retirement in 1966, after returning from service in Vietnam. The family moved to Las Vegas, and established a "civilian" life. The children, Sean, Philip, Dorothy Jr. (deceased) and Daniel, ranging in age from five to 13, entered local schools and college (UNLV), married, and continued their careers, all remaining in Las Vegas. Don was an avid traveler, and he and Dorothy continued to enjoy "space available" trips as their retirement hobby. Don is survived by his wife, Dorothy O'Reilly of Oceanside, Calif.; his sons, Sean, Philip and Daniel O'Reilly; five grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren, all of Las Vegas. Services will be at 1 p.m. Friday, April 25, at St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church, 315 Casino Center Blvd. Interment will follow at 3 p.m., at Palm Valley View Cemetery, 7600 S. Eastern Ave. Please remember Don in your prayers.