James Morris O'Brien

Jim O’Brien Dies
Lifelong Oberlin Resident

James Morris O’Brien, 76, passed away April 12, 2022.  He was born in Cleveland in October, 1945.  He had lived in Oberlin area since August 1946 and graduated from Oberlin High School in 1963.  He attended Kent State University.

Beginning in December 1965 Jim served four years in the U.S. Marine Corps including 13 months with the First Marine Air Wing stationed at the Da Nang, Viet Nam air base.  He served as a Navigation Technician on the A6A Intruder aircraft.

Mr. O’Brien worked for the Oberlin Lumber Suppliers on South Main from 1988 to their closing then later worked for Ridge Lumber for many years.

Mr. O’Brien volunteered for many years as a “Big Brother” and foster parent.  He enjoyed taking rail excursions, collecting rail road memorabilia, attending auctions, and school events.  He was one of the volunteers who helped get the Oberlin High School marching band uniform lights in working order for their homecoming performance.  He was a long-time volunteer at the Oberlin Oasis Animal Shelter.   He actively attended many Oberlin and college events.  He took many Life-Long Learning classes at LCCC.

He was preceded in death by both parents, Morris O’Brien, and Alice Winans O’Brien.  Jim is survived by his sister, Phyllis O’Brien Kimmel (Larry); niece, Jo Woodford; nephew, Brian Woodford; great-nephews, Harley Swartz, and Andy Myers; a great-niece, Cristal Riedel; great-great nephews Jesse and Zachary; a foster son, Lee Franklin, and several cousins.

In lieu of flowers contributions can be made to Oberlin Schools, music, art, or athletic departments; or to Oasis Animal Shelter.  

There was no funeral and a memorial service will be held, Saturday, June 18, 2022 at the New Russia Township Cemetery shelter at 11:00 a.m. 

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