Joseph W. O'Brien

Joseph W. O'Brien, age 93, of Hammondsport, New York, passed away on Friday, August 8, 2025, at the Fred & Harriett Taylor Health Center. He was born on January 29, 1932, in Corning, New York, to Walter and Kathryn (Driscoll) O'Brien.

Joseph graduated from Corning Free Academy in 1950. He served his country honorably in the United States Air Force from 1951 to 1955, stationed in England with the Strategic Air Command during the Korean War. Following his military service, he earned a bachelor's degree from St. Bernard's School of Theology and Ministry in Rochester and a master's degree in education from Elmira College.

He was a dedicated high school English teacher in the Corning-Painted Post School District for 33 years, retiring in 1994. Known for his passion for learning and teaching, Joseph left a lasting impact on generations of students.

On November 20, 1971, he married the love of his life, Dolores Gangeme, at St. Catherine's Church in Addison. Together, they enjoyed traveling and spending time between their home on Keuka Lake and in Florida.

Joseph had a lifelong love of boating on Seneca and Keuka Lakes, which he enjoyed for over 50 years. A skilled photographer and videographer, he took great pride in capturing the beauty of the lake to share with others. Music was also a joy in his life, he played the bugle as a young man and maintained a deep appreciation for music throughout his life.

He will be remembered as a devoted husband, a caring teacher, and a kind, thoughtful man who cherished his family and friends.

Joseph is survived by his beloved wife, Dolores; sister-in-law, Vera Paliani of Ormond Beach, Florida; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law: John and Linda Gangeme of Painted Post, and Tony and Louise Gangeme of Cobleskill, New York; as well as many loving nieces and nephews.

Family and friends are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial on Thursday, August 14, 2025, at 11:00 AM at St. Catherine's Church, 51 Maple Street, Addison, NY 14801, with Fr. Pat Connor officiating. Burial will immediately follow in St. Catherine's Cemetery in Addison.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Flint Funeral Home in Addison.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Joseph's memory may be made to: St. Jude Children's Research Hospital