Obituaries

Joseph W. O’Brien, Sr.
On Friday, August 3, 2018, Joseph W. O’Brien, Sr., passed away at the age of 89 at his home in Elburn, Illinois surrounded by family and friends. He was born March 23, 1929 in Decatur, IL to Thomas and Elizabeth Foley O’Brien.
Joe graduated from Fenwick High School and in 1951 he earned a B.S. degree in Accounting from Loyola University, Chicago. He also served in the U.S. Army. He was a salesman with a twinkle in his eye, eager to shake your hand and get to know you. He had a keen entrepreneurial spirit, launching many businesses and helping to propel others in their careers. He founded CLC Lubricants Company, which recently celebrated over 40 years in business. He never failed to entrust in his children that the “customer is always right” and he could always be trusted to get the job done.
He had a love for competition. He could be found on the tennis courts at Salt Creek, meeting with his regular group, picking up a game, or playing in tournaments. Later in life, he could be found at Arlington Racecourse following one of his many horses, that he fondly named after beloved friends and family members. Much fun was had especially when he ended up in the “winner’s circle”. Joe also enjoyed vacationing and eventually retirement in Vero Beach, Florida where he spent many days relaxing with friends and family.
He was the most loving husband, father, uncle, grandfather, and great grandfather. He will be especially remembered for his love and generosity to all.
Joe is survived by his wife, Nancy, 5 Children, Susan (Joseph) Lytle, Joseph (Cheryl), Patrick, Michael (Karen), Molly (Don) Prusa, 13 Grandchildren, Andrew, Erin, Ryan, Joe III, Jake, Benjamin, Patrick, Michael, Nathan, Peter, Kelly, Angela and Maggie, and 8 Great grandchildren, Sydney, Allie, Donovan, Isabella, Abigail, Peter, McKenzie, Madison, numerous nieces and nephews and several extended family members.
Joe was preceded in death by his first wife, Barbara, second wife, Shirley, son, Peter, grandsons, Ryan Matthew and Andrew Michael, brothers James and John and sisters, Helen Straub and Irene Crowe.
Funeral Mass will be held on Wednesday August 8, 2018 at 10:30 A.M. at St. Patrick Catholic Church, Downtown St. Charles, 115 N. 4th Street, St. Charles, IL 60174. Friends and family may gather at 9:30 A.M. until mass begins. Burial Thursday August 9, 2018 12:00 P.M. at Bronswood Cemetery, 3805 Madison, OakBrook, IL

• Send Flowers
• Guest Book
• Share
• Email
• Print