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8747 US 31
Berrien Springs, Michigan
Kenneth O'Brien Obituary
Kenneth James O'Brien III of Bridgman passed away at home on Jan. 9, 2026, after a long battle with lung cancer.
Ken was born on July 31, 1948, in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho to Lillian (Dickinson) O'Brien and Kenneth James O'Brien Jr.
He married Kay Schmidt on Sept. 5, 1970. They have two sons: Kenneth James O'Brien IV and Grady Michael O'Brien.
He is survived by his life partner, Kay, his: sons Ken and Grady; his siblings: Colleen Ziemba, Timothy O'Brien, Kathleen Woods, Eileen Pallas, Maureen O'Brien, Patrick (Barb) O'Brien, Bridget (Bill) Marifjeren, Sean (Toni) O'Brien, Lillian O'Brien and Noreen (Richard Beerman) Payne.
Kenneth was also preceded in death by a sister, Mavoureen O'Brien; brothers-in-law: Ron Pallas and Daniel Schmidt.
Ken owned and operated O'Brien's Pinewood Lodge in Bridgman. He mined for opals at the Royal Peacock Opal mine in Nevada. He loved sports and was an avid fan of the Detroit Lions, Red Wings and Tigers.
A celebration of life will be at from 1-4 p.m. Saturday, March 21, at the Weko Beach House in Bridgman.
Those wishing to leave an online condolence may do so at www.heritage-chapel.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memorial Events
for Kenneth O'Brien
Funeral services provided by:
Starks Family Funeral Homes & Cremation Services - Heritage Chapel8747 US 31, Berrien Springs, MI 49103
Memories and Condolences
for Kenneth O'Brien
1 Entry
Philip Brunder
February 17, 2026
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
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