John O'Brien

John M. O'Brien  1946 - 2017  
John M. O'Brien passed away suddenly at home in Alexandria, VA on June 30, 2017. He was born in Washington, DC to the late Joseph T. and Bernice H. O'Brien and raised in Arlington, VA. He graduated from Wakefield High School in 1964, attended the University of South Carolina, was an Army Reservist during the Vietnam conflict, and retired from the Department of Commerce after 34 years. John was a fun loving guy, had a droll sense of humor, and loved the ladies. But he was also intelligent and well informed and liked to debate many issues. He maintained many warm friendships through the years, most notably a group dubbed "the six pack" which included John Rohrback, Tom O'Donnell, Tom Thomas, Lyle Lovall, Frank Thompson, Paul Rollins, and Eric Fowler. He was an avid sports fan and, until his health declined, loved to play sports as well - especially golf. John is survived by his sister, Mary Stevens of Virginia Beach, VA; brother, Joseph O'Brien of Virginia Beach, VA; sister, Teresa Haynes of Richmond, VA; brother, Patrick O'Brien of Richmond, VA; numerous nieces and nephews. He also leaves two beloved dogs, Erin and Beju. A private memorial service will be held for John at a later date. His family would like to say a special thanks to several of his neighbors whose friendship he cherished and who watched out for him. "Death ends a life, not a relationship" Mitch Albom, Tuesdays with Morrie