Patrick Michael O’Brien

Patrick Michael O’Brien, better known as OB, a true patriot and loving family man, died peacefully surrounded by his wife, brother, sister-in-law, and children at home on Wednesday, September 18, 2024.  OB, 75, of Plainwell, formerly of Charlotte, was born March 8, 1949, in Detroit, the son of Dennis Joseph and Elizabeth Louise (Merritt) O’Brien.  Growing up in Dearborn, OB learned the value of hard work pumping gas and working on cars at his father’s service station.  He attended Sacred Heart Catholic School but was drafted into the U.S. Army before graduating.  OB’s talents in mechanical problem-solving and innovative thinking landed him a role as a helicopter mechanic and door gunner aboard a Huey Helicopter in the thick of the Vietnam War.  Upon his return from the war, OB found the disarray and chaos of the 1960s American homeland unbearable and volunteered immediately for a second tour of duty.  He returned to the Vietnam jungles only to find his former base abandoned.  He foraged his way to a new base, where he once again served his country with valor and distinction, earning countless decorations, including a Bronze Star.

Upon returning home, OB had several unusual jobs during these years, including training security dogs, going undercover for his father’s Fairlane Detective Agency, working as a bouncer and steel truck driver, and earning his welding certification to construct dune buggies.  He finished his G.E.D. and went on to earn two associate degrees. He eventually found his calling, enlisting with the Army Air National Guard, where he remained for nearly forty years.  He married the love of his life, Sherry Lynn Murrell, affectionately known to OB as Margaret, on October 16, 1976.  A few years into their marriage, Sherry and OB welcomed their son, Shaun Patrick O’Brien, and soon after, their daughter, Tara Elizabeth O’Brien.  They moved their young family to Charlotte, MI, where they would reside for 40 years.

OB continued his service as a career helicopter mechanic with the Air National Guard in Grand Ledge, eventually attaining the rank of First Sergeant.  His unit was deployed to Iraq, where he served his final tour of active combat duty at Camp Anaconda in Balad.  His troops trusted his combat experience and leadership, and he commanded respect from all who worked alongside him, including his superiors.  OB was always known to stand up for what is right and never back down.  His humility wouldn’t allow him to admit it, but to all who knew him, he was the true definition of an honorable man and a hero.

OB organized the St. Patrick’s Day celebration at the armory in Grand Ledge for many years, complete with corned beef and cabbage, serving over 100 servicemen and their families. His innate ability and natural God-given intelligence allowed him to solve problems many others couldn’t, a trait he passed on to his children.  Patriotism was a top priority in OB’s life.  To him, “Country is Family.”  He organized and led the construction of the Memorial Wall in Grand Ledge and served as a Mercy Pilot for those in need of transportation for long-distance medical care.

Above all, OB will be remembered for his dependability, courage, and love for his family.

OB is survived by his wife of nearly 48 years, Sherry O’Brien; their son, Shaun (Lara) O’Brien; their daughter, Tara (Aaron) McCullough; three grandsons, Beckett and Colin McCullough, and Logan O’Brien; sister, Beth (Ron) Clark; brother, Kevin (Fran) O’Brien; and several nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, Timmy O’Brien and Dennis O’Brien.

Friends are encouraged to support OB’s family by attending services or sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. A Memorial Mass will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, September 28, 2024, at St. Mary Catholic Church in Charlotte, with Rev. Fr. Dwight Ezop officiating.  Visitation will be one hour before the service at the church and in the Parish Hall after completing military honors.  The funeral will be webcast so you may watch it from any computer, smartphone, or mobile device with internet access. Go to www.prayfuneral.com, click on OB’s tribute, then click on Photos and Videos from your computer (or Media from your smartphone). In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions to the Wounded Warriors Project.  The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.