John O'Brien, Sr. 1859-1930

OBRIEN MCGUIRE JACKSON

Posted By: B. Hand (email)
Date: 10/26/2008 at 16:25:03

From The Emmetsburg Democrat 7 Aug 1930

John O'Brien, Sr. Dies Suddenly

Found Lifeless in His Room Wednesday Morning. Old Resident of This Place

Wednesday morning our many citizens were surprised to learn that John O'Brien, father of Tim, John and W.T. O'Brien, was found dead in his bed during the early morning hours at the home of his son, Tim, in this city. He spent the last six months with his son, W.T., in Chicago but returned to this city on Saturday. He met many of his old friends and was about as usual. Tuesday evening he came down and was apparently in the best of spirits. He made no complaint when he went to his room at 11 p.m. and retired. Early in the morning his son Tim opened the door to give him some article and found him lifeless. Mr. O'Brien was in very serious condition at his home in this city several years ago and his dangerous illness continued for quite a long time but he regained his strength and subsequently felt quite strong and hearty. September 11 Mrs. O'Brien passed away. Mr. O'Brien lived during the subsequent months with his local sons and with Mr. and Mrs. W.T. O'Brien of Chicago.

John O'Brien was born at Kankakee, Illinois August 1, 1859. His age was 71. His grandparents and his parents, Mr. and Mrs. William O'Brien came to this county in 1873. They were among the first settlers of Great Oak township. Mr. O'Brien grew to manhood in that locality. He was married in the Catholic church in old town June 3, 1884 to Miss Margaret Catherine McGuire. Mr. and Mrs. O'Brien built a fine home in Great Oak where they resided until 1915 when they bought a residence in this city, subsequently making their home in our community. Mr. O'Brien is survived by the three sons named above. His only daughter, Mrs. Mary Jackson, died September 1, 1926.

Mr. O'Brien was one of the clean, high minded citizens of Palo Alto county. He was true to the highest interests of our community, our state and our great country. His home life was ideal. He was at all times temperate and he was moderate in his daily habits. He was unusually loyal to his convictions. He was genial and courteous. His friends could always depend on him. His warm regard for those whom he esteemed was enduring. He loved wholesome amusements. He was a good sport. He met his obligations like a man and he responded cheerfully and generously to reasonable appeals for religious and social purposes. But this was not all. He taught the members of his excellent family to do likewise. The writer found Mr. O'Brien a warm sympathizer and a devoted friend during the 45 years that we knew him. We learn with deep sorrow of his sudden passing. Our heartfelt sympathy goes out to the sorrowing worthy sons and to the other relatives in their bereavement.