Timothy Patrick O'Brien

Timothy Patrick O'Brien was born on July 27, 1955, to Kathleen O'Brien (Boyle) and James O'Brien. He was raised in Inkster, Michigan, with his brother Jim and sisters Molly, Patty and Noreen. He enjoyed growing up in a neighborhood filled with children where he built friendships that lasted a lifetime. Timothy attended Sacred Heart High School in Dearborn where he excelled at sports, prior to enrolling at Eastern Michigan University. Along the way he cultivated relationships with a great group of friends that endured over decades.

Timothy built his professional career in skilled trades at Ford Motor Company, where he specialized in HVAC. An active UAW supporter, he remained committed to the union long after his retirement. Timothy also had a successful second career as a real estate agent, where at one time, he had the opportunity to work alongside his son, Colin.

Timothy's professional career came second to his number one priority, his family. As the father to Colin, Meghan and Rylee, he established a foundation of love and security. He was always there with a big smile and warm hug, whenever his kids needed him. His advice was invaluable and something his children cherished immensely. Timothy was proud of his children and always made sure they knew. The values and lessons he instilled are blessings they will carry forever.

In 2005, Timothy's life entered a new era when he became a grandfather. Being Dadio to Sydney, James, Finn, Keeley, Tatum, Joah and Rio was a role that meant the world to him and one that fit him perfectly. He was actively involved in his grandchildrens lives and could often be found cheering them on from the sidelines of games and events, building experiences at Home Depot or smiling over FaceTime. The wisdom he shared with his grandkids was just one of the reasons many of them felt he was the smartest man they ever met.

Timothy was fortunate enough to find his true match in his wife Mary. They thoroughly enjoyed their time with each other over 35 years of marriage. Together they created a life filled with love and happiness, cherishing each other. Over their many trips, excursions and adventures, they took time to celebrate, laugh and live a life full of love. There is no one Timothy would rather spend time with than his wife and you could see it by the smile on his face.

Timothy was a true bright light in this world. His smiling Irish eyes were warm and he made others feel special and valued, a true gift. His laugh could fill up a room. He was extremely proud of his Irish heritage, a trait he passed on to his children and grandchildren. An avid music lover, Timothy's taste in music was eclectic and he often shared his love of music with his children, attending concerts and creating memories. He also had a soft spot for his little girl, his Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Fiona.

He invested his time and energy into organizations he believed in deeply. One was Pan Can, the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, for which he was an active volunteer and celebrated as a survivor. He was also a member of the Scottish Rite and a Mason with Plymouth Rock Lodge #47, where he grew strong relationships with a whole other group of brothers.

Timothy leaves behind a legacy of love and light. He was proceeded in death by his parents and is survived by his wife, Mary, his siblings Molly (Tom), Jim (Mindy), Patty (Wade) and Noreen, in addition to his children Colin (Natalie), Meghan (Adam), Rylee (Julian) and grandchildren Sydney, James, Finn, Keeley, Tatum, Joah and Rio Timothy. Timothy also leaves behind loving nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, August, 30 from 10 a.m. - 12 p.m., with service at noon at Harry J. Will Funeral Homes, 37000 Six Mile Road in Livonia.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network.