Brian James O'Rourke Sr.

Brian James O'Rourke, 85, passed away peacefully on May 26, 2025, surrounded by family. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather and a man of faith and enduring work ethic. Brian's life was marked by dedication-to his family, his profession, and the waters he loved.
Born in 1939, Brian was the son of Clarice and William O'Rourke. From an early age, Brian exhibited a strong sense of purpose and resilience that would define his life's journey. He received his Bachelor's degree from Saint Anselm College and went on to complete numerous engineering certifications at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Wentworth Institute of Technology.
Brian began his career in construction as a laborer for Perini Corporation working on the iconic Prudential Tower in Boston. He rose through the ranks to become a respected construction superintendent overseeing large scale construction projects- from hospitals, to airport terminals. Brian served with honor in both the Army Reserve and the National Guard. His commitment to service extended into civilian life as well. He was an active volunteer with the Buzzards Bay Coalition, dedicating time and energy to preserving the coastal environment he cherished so deeply. A cancer survivor, he rode in several Pan Mass Challenges and walked 9 Jimmy Fund marathons, raising well over $100,000 for a clinic for cancer survivors.
A lifelong sailor and fisherman, Brian found joy and peace on the water, especially with his children and grandchildren. He spent countless hours navigating Narragansett and Buzzards Bay in beetle cats, his beloved Herreshoff (the Shamrock) and a fishing boat (Lady Bug Lulu) that he built himself and named after his wife.
Brian grew up in Warren, Rhode Island and raised his children in Framingham, Massachusetts. He and his wife retired in North Falmouth in a home he built for the family as a summer cottage.
At the heart of Brian's life was his family. He is survived by his beloved wife of 62 years Mary Lou O'Rourke; their children Brian O'Rourke and his wife Helen, Kathleen Scott and her husband Robert, Kevin O'Rourke and his wife Amy. He was a proud grandfather to Anna Scott, Christopher Scott, Brian O'Rourke III, Ellen O'Rourke, Olivia O'Rourke and Claire O'Rourke and great granddaughter Teagan Karaviotis. His legacy lives on through them-in their values, their stories, and their memories.
Brian was predeceased by his parents Clarice and William O'Rourke and his sister Jane O'Rourke.
Brian's legacy lives on not only through the structures he helped build but also through the lives he touched-with kindness, integrity, a giant smile, contagious laugh and unwavering love. May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him.
Visitation will take place at Chapman Funerals and Cremations, 584 W. Falmouth Highway (Route 28A) in West Falmouth, MA on June 1 from 2 – 5 pm. A Catholic Mass will follow on June 2 at 1 pm at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church, 481 Quaker Road, North Falmouth.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Brian's name to The Buzzards Bay Coalition.