John Breslin

John Joseph Breslin, 88, passed away on December 21, 2013 at his home in Midwest City, OK. He was born on Feb. 8, 1925 to Edwin Breslin and Mary Reisner Breslin. John grew up in Pennsylvania, being raised mostly in a Catholic boy’s orphanage after the passing of his mother at an early age. John was drafted into the U.S. Army and was a member of the famous Second Armored Division. During WW II, He landed at Normandy three days after D-day and assisted in the liberation of Europe from German occupation. He successfully helped defend the allied forces during the famous “Battle of the Bulge.” He took a break after WWII then reenlisted in time to serve in Korea. He saw plenty of action, but used to joke that he survived rice and SPAM in Korea. He finally left the military in April 1952. While stationed in Texas John met the love of his life, Thelma Tinsley, marrying her on February 9, 1952. They moved to OKC where he was employed by Tinker Air Force Base, and then by the OU Health Science Center’s Police Force. John is survived by his wife of 61 years, three daughters, Teresa, Patricia, and Johnna; and son-in-laws, Victor, Terry, and James; and six grandchildren, Elizabeth, Genevieve, Jessica, Taylor, Jacob, and J. Matthew; and two great-grandchildren, Roark and Kaitlin. A life time Catholic, John was a member of St. Philip Neri and St. John the Baptist Churches. He supported his parishes generously and with firm faith in the Lord. He enjoyed music, reading, gardening, and walking. His motto was “Always have dessert first!” A Funeral Mass followed by a luncheon will be held at St. Philip Neri Catholic Church, 1107 Felix Place, Midwest City, at 10 A.M on Saturday the 28th. Prior to that, a visitation will be held at Bill Merritt Funeral Home, 6201 Northwest 39th Expressway in Bethany between 1 p.m. and 8 p.m. on Friday the 27th. John’s Burial will be at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens Cemetery at “Sermon on the Mount” at approx. 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, the 28th of December. John was truly a member of “The Greatest Generation.” He was a dedicated husband, a loving father and good provider. He served his country with honor. He never had a harsh word for anyone, making friends with whomever he might encounter.