James Granville O'Brien

Reunited with his beloved Wife of 70 years Jean Louise O'Brien on Friday, June 27, 2025 at the age of 100. Dear Dad of Kathleen (Al) Jungbluth, David (Heidi Janzen) O'Brien, Peter (Anne) O'Brien, Patricia (Bill Mullins) O'Brien-Mullins, Mary Jean (Ernie) Alvarez and Thomas (Deborah Gomez-Felder) O'Brien. Proud Grandpa of 13 and Great-Grandpa of 11. Also loved by other relatives.
Jim could best be described as soft-spoken and kind. He never sought to be the center of attention. He remained calm, patient, and a good listener his entire life. A rabid reader to the end, he enjoyed non-fiction military stories as well as books and magazines about nature (especially birds).
His family was especially important to him as a husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather. Family always came first for him.
Whether it was going to Europe at 18 years old in World War II or accepting the challenges of aging with dignity and class, he remained strong in his faith.
He enjoyed sharing a joke with anyone (it seemed the drier the better), reunions at Marquette High and with his friends he had served in the Army. His pride in his heritage was seen in his 10 years of research in compiling the O'Brien family tree and volunteering at Irishfest. He also volunteered for many years at Milwaukee Achievers teaching others the English language.
Mass of Christian Burial at San Camillo Chapel, 10100 W. Bluemound Road, Wauwatosa, WI 53226, on August 13, 2025. Visitation at 12:30PM and Funeral Mass to follow at 2:00PM. Private burial at Holy Cross Cemetery. Memorials appreciated to the St. Camillus Foundation or Capuchin Community Services (House of Peace).