William G. O’Brien

William Gentleman O’Brien

August 15, 1935 – June 13, 2022

VISITATION: Thursday, June 16^th from 5pm to 7pm at the West Center Chapel, followed by VIGIL SERVICE at 7pm.  MASS OF CHRISTIAN BURIAL: Friday, June 17^th at 10am at St. Gerald Catholic Church, 9602 “Q” St.  Entombment: Resurrection Mausoleum, with military honors.  Memorials will be directed by the family.

To view live broadcasts of the Vigil Service and Mass, please visit www.heafeyheafey.com and click the “View Live Cast” button on the home page.

William “Bill” passed away at the age of 86 on June 13, 2022, at home surrounded by loved ones. Bill was born on August 15, 1935, in Omaha, Nebraska and was the fifth of eight children to Robert and Genevieve O’Brien. Bill shared many found memories of his childhood surrounded by his parents, siblings, cousins, and many friends. Bill attended St. Peter’s Grade School in Omaha and graduated from St. Joseph’s High School in 1953. He enlisted in the Navy in 1958 and served 4 adventure-filled years. Upon completion of his service to our Nation, Bill met his beloved and best friend Jeanette Gates who became his wife in 1962. They embarked on their life together in Omaha creating a legacy of memories and traditions with their seven children and their spouses, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.

Bill’s career included many years managing the distribution and transportation of goods throughout the Midwest primarily with Richmond Gordman, but also several early years with Hinky Dinky. Bill was well respected in his position and was known for the kindness and respect that he showed all his team, which reflected the same kindness he demonstrated to his family, friends, and colleagues. Bill led by example showing his love of volunteering for his children’s activities such as coaching, leading Boy Scouts, and participating in school functions. Bill had an especially close love and appreciation for our Holy Mother Mary and acted on that love through various volunteer activities for the Church, including teaching Religious Education for multiple years. Bill loved deeply and was deeply loved by many. Bill will be missed tremendously.

Bill is survived by his wife of 59 years, Jeanette; daughters, Marie (Larry) Naegele, Jennifer (Joe) Sheridan, Kathleen O’Brien; sons, Drs. William (Denise) O’Brien, David (Ryan) O’Brien, Matthew O’Brien, and Christopher (Heather) O’Brien; sisters and sister-in-law Beverly McCann, Mary Jean Sims, and Betty O’Brien; brother-in law Joe Casey; 29 grandchildren, 22 great grandchildren, and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Bill was preceded in death by parents, Robert and Genevieve O’Brien; siblings and their spouses, Robert and Patricia O’Brien, Louise (Ken) Miller, Colleen (Bill) Johnston & Henry Murray; brother and brothers-in-law, Michael O’Brien, Maury McCann, and Dan Sims; sister, Catherine Casey; and grandson, Dennis O’Brien.