Robert J. O’Brien, age 88, of Harleysville, formerly of Hatfield, passed away peacefully, on Monday, July 8, 2024, at Peter Becker Community while surrounded by his family. He was preceded by his childhood sweetheart of 65 years, “Nancy” Anne (nee O’Neill) O’Brien, on July 24, 2021.
Born in the Fox Chase section of Philadelphia, he was the son of the late Francis J. and Emma Marie (nee Geyer) O’Brien.
He served his country honorably with the United States Coast Guard.
Mr. O’Brien worked in Civil Service with the Department of Defense until his retirement.
He and Nancy loved to travel together in their spare time.
Mr. O’Brien had a profound ability to spread joy. He was a kind loving man who brought a smile to everyone he met.
Surviving are his 4 loving children, Mark and his wife Theresa, Maureen Sagrantz and her husband John, Sherry Sikora and her husband Stephen and Bruce and his wife Elsa, 6 grandchildren, Stephanie Lynn Sikora, Emilee Anne Taylor, Aimee Gilbert, JoAnne Guzman, Robert O’Brien and Makayla O’Brien as well as 9 great grandchildren.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend Robert’s Funeral Mass, on Monday, July 15, 2024, at 10:30 AM at St. Maria Goretti Catholic Church, 1601 Derstine Rd, Hatfield, PA 19440, where the family will greet friends beginning at 9:30 AM, in Church, prior to Mass. Interment will be private.
In lieu of flowers memorial donations in Robert’s name may be made to Cardeza Foundation Hemophilia Center, 1015 Chestnut St., Suite 1321, Philadelphia, PA 19107.
I had the great honor of working with and for Bob Obrien for over 20 years for the United States Air Force at Willow Grove ARS. He was the Base Contracting Officer and I was his deputy. I had the great Fortune of working with many great individuals! By far Bob was the best! Bob taught me how live and enjoy life! His best saying was “just do it” no water what the task was. Working with Bob at Willow Grove was the best experence any one could have. He really cared about the individuals who worked for him and created a work environment that made every on look foward to comming to work. He would say one day you will look back and see how good are jobs were! Bob’s passing is bitter sweet. It is sad and many people will miss him. However, the good thing is, he is reunited with his best friend and wife of 65 years! Indeed I will miss him!
He was the best father-in-law ever…!
Together we did so many things and you listen to me when i needed to be heard. It was said the other day; “now I am an orphan”, However now I am an orphan twice over.
Dad’s wish is now fulfilled – to be with his beloved Nancy.
Forever together. I can want nothing more then to know they are as one.
Leaving me, and so many others with only the pictures and memories.
Until we meet again…
Love – Stephen
we rarely have met a man more gracious and joyful than Bob. He will be missed. He was so grateful to be able to receive the Eucharist at our little service in the meeting area of Primrose Path. He is resting in peace
Joe and Rose Bondi
Bobby –
I love that I can only remember you as happy; always greeting me with a smile and great hug.
I love the values you held firm – faith, family, country.
I love the bond you had in a lifetime of friendships that stayed close through the years.
Miss you
Love, Honey
My oldest dear friend
Knew Bob since 7th grade
I had the pleasure of working with Bob at BSC. He was the kindest person and would do anything for you. Bob lit up any room he walked in. I called him Bob The Builder because he could fix anything you needed. May he be at peace. My condolences to his family.
bobbie was my best friend. everyday he would come into the dining room i would dance with him and just sit and chat with bobby. he was the light of coming to work. i will miss him and cherish every memory i have with him