Mr. O'Brien was a teacher of mine at Walt Whitman High School in 1964.  One of those (few) teachers whose class you enjoyed going to.  Sad to hear of his passing but glad of a life well lived, RIP.

I was just reminded of a thought when I saw a beautiful monarch butterfly while riding my bike today. It seems every time I see a butterfly it is unexpected and it's usually just one. Now since dad loved butterflies (a fact we all know!) every time I see one I feel like dad is saying hi. I always say, "hi dad" and it makes me  think of him and smile.

Grandpa was the best grandpa anyone could ask for.  I loved the times we spent together golfing and skiing.

What can I say except that I have been so blessed with wonderful parents. Dad left us too soon! I wanted more time with him. I know that Dad had a great life and he left us with the best memories that I will cherish forever! I feel him every time I'm in church or at the beach. I know he is watching over all of us with his family. I think the most important thing my dad taught me was the importance of family. I hope that I'm doing the same thing for my children and grandchildren.God bless you and keep you in the palm of his hand!

I will always remember the quiet times spent with Grandpa in cozy conversation. From when I was a little girl until the last time I saw him, Grandpa always took time to ask about my life and to share his special stories with me. The warm tone of his voice and his gentle laughter were like a cuddly blanket. There was always peace in his company. He was a true blessing, an excellent example, and will always be one of my heroes. I love you so much, Grandpa, and I hope to honor your memory by passing on your immense love to my children, whom you also loved.

As a child grandpa was the coolest adult to play with in the pool. I'll always remember the amazing man who loved to play, learn and teach. I'm so thankful I got to spend his last few weeks with him on the cruise and at the beach. I don't know if anyone could ask for more from life than what my grandpa had.

I wish I could have experienced the active grandpa Frank that everyone so fondly remembers and treasures.  I've been apart of the O'Brien/ Wissig family for 20 years and even though I did not spend significant time, or have known him on a personal level.... what I will always remember about Frank AND his beloved wife Sheila is that family values were on point! They never forgot a birthday, anniversary or holiday which was always admirable to me. It's been a privilege to have had the opportunity to be in Franks presence at least once a year on New Smyrna beach and at other family functions. Frank definitely left his mark on his famous family favorite "Grandpa's Chicken" which was totally awesome! So, clearly this man has loved his family hard and has left a lasting impression that will never be forgotten. He will be missed...
From loving granddaughter in law  Renee

There really aren't enough words or the right words to describe Dad and how much he meant to us.  Having looked at a lot of photos while putting his memory book together, I noticed that he was at the center of a lot of stuff that we did;  the motivator, the inspiration and cheerleader.  "Let's get the show on the road!", he often used to get us all moving, especially getting ready for skiing.  
He was always there my whole life with unending support and love!  Never judgmental, he made me feel like a princess, a special person who could accomplish anything and worthy of everything good in life.
Besides how Dad treated us and the happy life we had with him, his bone deep love of science and nature was a very precious gift  that I will keep forever and if I'm lucky will pass a little on to my own children.
One of my favorite sentiments we received was, "Surely now he's the one giving light to the stars."  Surely!

April 22,2015:  Text from Dennis Mangan:  "So sorry to hear about your father.  He was a great man, always really supportive and I'm grateful for all that he did for me, taking me up to Whiteface, letting us borrow the yellow Pinto, going out in the boat...great memories!  He will be missed.  My prayers go out to your mother and the rest of your family!"     Love,

 We have so many happy memories with Frankie, Sheila and family including his trying to teach us to water-ski to "boat sitting" for him one summer (and refinishing the wooden boat) to many Thanksgiving dinners together. We must take comfort in thinking that the brothers (Barry) will be together again with Mom and Dad.

One of many wonderful Thanksgiving Days at the Senior O'Briens in St. Albans, NY.

So sorry to hear this news rather late..Fond memories of spending time with you at Brodie Mtn. skiing and Forest Lake at the many Christmas in July parties at my parents camp. My sincere condolences to all of the O'Brien's. Sending healing thoughts and prayers from upstate NY xoxo~Sara

Dear Sheila and family, we are so saddened to hear that Frank has left us. He will always have a special place in our hearts. A long distance big hug to you Shelia and Candice

Dear Sheila and family, we are so sorry for your loss of a beloved husband,father and grandfather. We mourn the loss of a dear friend and a gentle soul.
Love Bea and family

Dear Sheila and family,
Our prayers are with you in this sorrowful time. Frank will not be forgotten.I'm sending the Japanese head band picture as a remembrance of happier days.
Love,
Hank and Anita

Frank and Sheila are neighbors to us, here in  Jay, NY. They are kind, good people who are active in their community through church and community activities, such as LP Skate Club, Garden Club, Golf, Skiing at Whiteface, etc. Frank liked to apply his scientific methods in trimming his trees to view-perfection, and in manoeuvring their vehicles in the wintry driveway conditions.We will miss Frank; and send our love and prayers to Sheila and their children / grandchildren, especially Erin, Charlie and Candice, whom we saw recently. Blessings, Barbara and Peter Brinkley

Thinking of you all! I know this is such a hard time. We are thinking and praying for you. Love you Candice!

My brother-in-law Frankie was the sweetest man I ever met. Though we did not live close to him, he, Shelia and family were never far from our thoughts, especially at Thanksgiving when we traditionally broke bread together. We are so happy that his brother Barry, my late husband, now has the enjoyment of Frankie's company and that they are together with their Mom and Dad.
Love, Marie

I have many fond memories as a child going out on the O'Brien boat with Mr. O'Brien at the helm.  He was a very nice man.  My deepest sympathies go out to the entire family.
Kitty Grinnell

I am so sorry to read of Mr. O'Brien's passing. My condolences go out to the entire family. May God Bless them.
Debbie & Dave Shawcross

OBITUARY

Frank Edward O'Brien

November 12, 1929 – April 21, 2015

Woodlawn Funeral Home & Memorial Park

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