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BORN
1940
DIED
2024
Patrick O'Brien Obituary
August 5, 1940 - May 6, 2024
Rancho Murieta, California - In the early waking hours of May 6, 2024, Patrick O'Brien, devout husband, father, brother, grandfather, uncle, friend, hunter, angler, athlete, and retired Senior Marine Biologist who--for over 40 years--worked with tireless dedication to sustaining natural resources for the California Department of Fish and Game, transitioned to eternal life with "the peace that passeth all understanding.".
Pat will forever be missed, cherished, and remembered, by those closest to his heart, as a dear and decent man who was always there through good and bad, who captivated others with his wisdom, his stories, and his love of wildlife; who knew, loved, appreciated, and understood Northern California--hunting ducks and deer, backpacking, fishing, diving for abalone with an at once profound and unflagging scientific respect and philosophic wonderment--in a way that few, in their lifetimes, could ever imagine; who most of all never failed to take the time to savor a simple bounce pass or frisbee toss, or even a seat high in the stands to soak up and take in, with misty eyes--if only for a moment--the achievements, accolades, and milestones of his beloved children, grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.
He was the love of lives whose love was unconditional.
A memorial and celebration of life is in the works for the Fall of 2024 near Rancho Murrieta, CA. All are welcome. Please look for updates and details in the weeks to come, or feel free to inquire anytime with Pat's son, Michael O'Brien, at [email protected].
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Patrick O'Brien
4 Entries
Michael O'Brien
July 7, 2024
This post is to notify all that a Memorial and Celebration of Life will be held at the Murieta Inn and Spa, Rancho Murieta, CA. on September 21, 2024, 2-5 pm. Bring your pictures and memories of Pat to share with friends and family. All are welcome. We look forward to seeing you there.
Please RSVP Michael O'Brien at [email protected] if you are planning to attend, or if you would like more information.
Michael O'Brien
June 15, 2024
Thanks so much for sharing these memories. It means a lot to us. Bob, I remember you from my own years as a seasonal aide at Nimbus. Dad had great respect for you. LB, I remember that trip like it was yesterday. Great moments. You were such a a dear friend.
LB Boydstun
June 14, 2024
Pat and I were close family friends, college friends and associates at Fish and Game: me his first boss, he my third boss. I remember a camping trip to the Murphy's area many years ago. His and my families were tightly packed into two station wagons, his a brand new Pontiac, as I recall, mine a 1973 Chevy Impala. His new car engine, which was only a few days old, blew an oil seal, which splattered my windshield. The nearest GM dealership, in Angles Camp, took the car in for repairs. The eight of us ended up repacking his stuff into my car, and proceeding with our camping trip. The kids: Mike, Kevin, Steven and Allison had a great time packing into the same car. We adults grumbled, except for Pat, who found the whole scene great entertainment.
Bob Prosser
June 12, 2024
I know and worked with Pat during my tenure with the DF&G. Great guy always there to help or answer questions regarding our wildlife and fisheries. I will miss him.
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