Dennis James O'Brien

Dennis was born April 28th,1953, to Martha and John O'Brien in Bradford, Pennsylvania. He was a graduate of Bradford Area High School and found his calling guiding families through the funeral and memorial process as a Family Service Counselor for nearly 40 years.

Dennis' compassion and caring nature led to multiple awards in the Funeral Service industry and Top Family Service Counselor in 2016. As loving as he was, he was equally lovable. Dennis was known to friends and family as quick-witted, easy to talk to and fun. He was an avid traveller, often found on cruise ships with his husband, Ken, enjoying the cuisine. Dennis was a self proclaimed foodie and an excellent cook. He enjoyed jazz and had a proclivity for the arts. Dennis also loved playing three card burn, despite being terrible at poker. He likely funded several college educations to his nieces and nephews. But, that was okay. He loved family above all.

In September of 1993, Dennis found his soulmate in Ken. The connection between them was so immediately present. They hopped aboard one of those cruise ships with friends and family a month after meeting and have been inseparable ever since. They have cherished each other through 29 years of joy, friendship, overcoming obstacles and growing together. Dennis believed Ken was always part of his soul path.

Through his battle with Cancer, his spirituality anchored him in his final days. He maintained his sense of humor so unique to Dennis, as well as his grace.

Dennis is preceded in death by his mother and father, Martha and John O'Brien. He is survived by his husband, Ken Fraser; his step-mother Virginia O'Brien; one sister, Mary Schenfield; three brothers Thomas, Mark and Bill O'Brien and several nieces and nephews.

A private Celebration of Life will be held on September 3rd with family and friends in Bradford, Pennsylvania. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be sent to the Bradford SPCA in honor of Higgins, a beloved, departed dog of Dennis and Ken, who surely greeted Dennis at the gates of heaven.