David Joseph O'Brien

It is with deep sadness that the family of David Joseph O’Brien announce his passing on October 18th, 2026 at home. Born in Halifax on September 22nd, 1952 to the late Luna (MacDonald) & Denis O’Brien, Dave grew up in the city alongside his four siblings. He was a proud lifelong North Ender and attended Saint Stephen’s School & Saint Patrick’s High School. It was in high school when he started dating his future wife Debbie. They enjoyed over 50 years together, creating memories alongside their daughter Emilie.

Dave took pride in being a hard worker and throughout his life he worked in several different fields. He was a skilled carpet & flooring installer with Simpson’s Department Store until their closing, and then continued his trade with independent contractors for a number of years. His final career was with the Department of National Defence, where he worked alongside the Military in the Logistics Department until his retirement.

Dave loved being outdoors, either walking in the woods or alongside a riverbank surrounded by the peace and beauty of nature. Fishing was one of his greatest enjoyments, and he loved nothing more than casting a fishing line near his mother’s family home in Sherbrooke Village. Some of his favourite memories were from the summers he spent in Sherbrooke over the years with family & friends.

Dave loved things of the past and found joy in the simple things of life. He had an appreciation for all things historical & had an interest in antiques, documentaries, black & white movies, and old books. He enjoyed cooking, gardening, and a friendly game of pool. One of Dave’s most special qualities was the thought and care he put into finding gifts that had a special meaning or told a story. One special gift is an antique child’s chair he coincidentally had bought just days before learning they were expecting their daughter. Dave will always be remembered for his quiet passions, his great sense of humour, and easygoing nature

He is survived by his wife of 44 years Deborah (Burns) and daughter Emilie, siblings Kenneth (Joanne), Karen Stone (Harvey), and Peter, along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, and their families. Also survived by brother in laws Daniel (Diana), Robert (Laurence), John (Betty Ann), Gary (Sandra), and sister in law Joanne (Stephen). Besides his parents, he was predeceased by his sister Pamela & her husband Jack Fortune, and his mother & father in law Emmeline & John A (Tony) Burns.

Visitation will be held Tuesday November 10th, 2026 at Cruikshank's Funeral Home, 2666 Windsor Street, Halifax from 6:00 p.m - 8:00 p.m. Cremation has taken place. Private family burial at a later date.