William Bernard “Bill” O’Brien, age 85, of North Branch, Minn., formerly of Babbitt, Minn., passed away peacefully on Thursday, Sept.29, 2016, at Ecumen Parmly LifePointes.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife Carol; and brothers, Kenneth O’Brien and Larry O’Brien. Survivors include his wife, Lorraine; his children, Steven (Alice) O’Brien, Sue O’Brien, Ann (David) Johnsen, Sheryl O’Brien, James (Lisa) O’Brien, including 13 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren.  His extended family: Don West, Doug (Jean) West, Tom (Deb) West, Teresa (John) Murray.
He was born on May 2, 1931, in Shullsburg, the son of Bill and Nelma (Baxter) O’Brien and Mary Lorraine O’Brien. Bill graduated from Shullsburg High School in 1949.  He obtained a bachelor’s degree in minerals engineering from the University of Wisconsin, Platteville. On July 23, 1955, he married Carol Mae Richter in Platteville. He served in the Air Force from 1950 till 1954.  Bill worked for Reserve Mining Company from 1964 to 1986 and was promoted to the title of Sr. Industrial Engineer.  He finished his working life at Jostens in Red Wing.  After his retirement, he enjoyed spending time with family and helping others with their projects. Following the death of his first wife, Carol, Bill met his 2nd wife Lorraine in a widower’s grief group.  They were married April 12th, 1997.  Following their wedding they began their new life in Wyoming, Minn.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, Oct. 7, 2016 at St. Peter Catholic Church in Forest Lake with Rev. John Drees officiating.  Visitation will be held from 5-8 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 6 at the Grandstrand Funeral Home in North Branch.  Interment with military honors will follow the service and take place at 3:30 p.m. at the Burnside Cemetery in Red Wing.
In lieu of flowers memorials are preferred and directed to the family.
Arrangements are under the direction of Grandstrand Funeral Home in North Branch.  Condolences maybe left at www.grandstrandfh.com.