Deacon John O'Brien

Deacon John Patrick O’Brien  passed away May 20, 2011 in St. George, Utah. He was born December 17, 1926 in Holyoke, Mass. to John J. and Gertrude More O’Brien. Deacon O’Brien grew up in Holyoke and, in 1944, he enlisted in the Navy. He served stateside during World War II. He returned home after the ward and taught chemistry at Holyoke High School for many years. He was ordained a deaconfor the Diocese of Springfield on Jan. 13, 1983. In 1990, he moved to St. George, Utah, where he was a devoted member of the St. George Catholic Church. A pilot who enjoyed aviation, he also was a member of the American Legion Post 90, St. George Elks Lodge and a 4th degree Knight of Columbus. Deacon O’Brien is survived by his wife, Rita; sons: Jack O’Brien, Fla., Dr. Robert O’Brien, Texas and James O’Brien, Nev.; daughter Mary Rose Bernini, Ohio; step-daughters: Doris McGarragh, Texas and Diane McDonald, Calif.; and 14 grandchildren. A funeral Mass will be held Wednesday, May 25 at 10:30 a.m. at the St. George Catholic Church, 259 West 200 North, St. George. A rosary will be held Tuesday at 7 p.m. at Metcalf Mortuary, 288 West St. George Blvd. Interment will be at the St. George City Cemetery. Arrangements entrusted to the care of Metcalf Mortuary, (435) 673-4221.