Victor John O'Bryan

Victor John O’Bryan, longtime resident of Westlake Village CA, beloved father, grandfather, partner, teammate, and friend, passed away on April 15, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of excellence, bravery, dedication, and love. Born on July 25, 1935, in Herkimer, New York, Victor was the second of five children and grew up in a close-knit Irish Catholic family that valued education, athletics, faith, and hard work. His commitment to these values was evident throughout his life, leading to a successful career, numerous friendships, and a deeply cherished family who were by his side until the very end.

A standout student and athlete, Victor graduated from Brown University in 1957, with a degree in economics, where he served as captain of the baseball team. As a junior, Victor started at shortstop for Brown in the Florida St Invitational, and played against notables such as Dick Howser, Ray Nitschke, and Lee Corso. Although drafted by several Major League Baseball teams including the Braves and Dodgers, Victor chose a different path, one that would fulfill his dream of flying. He joined the Air Force and became a highly skilled fighter pilot, flying high performance aircraft such as the F-100 Super Sabre and the F-104 Starfighter. After initial F-104 training, he quickly worked his way up the ranks from wingman to flight lead and then to instructor pilot. From this progression and development, he learned and embodied the military’s “I got your back attitude” which led to brothers-in-arms camaraderie and life long friendships. Victor’s bravery shone brightly as he flew air combat missions over Vietnam, earning the prestigious Air Force Air Medal for distinguished service and honor. He was one of the very few pilots to survive a low altitude ejection out of the F-104, nicknamed the “widow maker”, in Washington State during a practice strafing run in 1963. Victor often referred to this day as his 2nd birthday.

After concluding his active duty service in 1966 at the rank of Captain, Victor continued to serve in the Air National Guard, located in Van Nuys, CA, while also embarking on a second career as a commercial pilot for American Airlines. Over the course of 29 years at American, he was qualified in several commercial aircraft including the B-707, B-727, Super 80 and eventually retiring as a DC-10 Captain in 1995. Victor made the 6 o’clock news in Sept 1985 when he diverted a DC-10 into Dyess AFB, Abilene TX, due to an engine fire, potentially saving 177 passengers and 13 crew members. He was based in Los Angeles his entire career, and his routes included Boston, New York, Miami, Dallas and Honolulu. Victor completed his military service as a C-130 examiner pilot in the “Hollywood Guard”, retiring at the rank of Lt Col.

Victor’s flying career spanned 38 years and more than 35,000 hours, a testament to his expertise and love of aviation. Off the runway, Victor developed a passion for running and he participated in several marathons and triathlons, including Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles, and Las Vegas.

He was equally devoted to his family providing love, support, and mentorship to his children, Michael and Erin; his grandchildren, Sean, Neil, and Ross; and his daughter-in-law Denice. Victor also shared a cherished relationship with his girlfriend, Ana Maria, and maintained a friendship with Kristen, his former spouse and mother of his children.

As we remember Victor, we celebrate a man whose life was as adventurous as it was devoted. He loved a good happy hour and a glass of “cheap white” wine. Victor will be laid to rest on a hillside overlooking his favorite restaurant bar, never missing another happy hour. He has flown home rejoining his parents, brothers, and sister, leaving us with memories of his incredible drive, spirit, and loving heart. Victor will be deeply missed by his extended family and friends, all of whom were enriched by his presence.

A funeral mass for Victor will be held Friday, May 10, 2024 at 12:00 PM at St Jude's Catholic Church, 32032 Lindero Canyon Rd, Westlake Village, CA 91361. A funeral service will occur Friday, May 10, 2024 at 2:00 PM at Pierce Brothers Valley Oaks at 5600 Lindero Canyon Road, Westlake Village, CA 91362.

If you have questions for the family, please contact Michael at 818-624-9473.