James D. O'Brien

James D. O’Brien, 90, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, August 12, 2015 at Tiller’s in Oswego. He was born as Donald Neven O’Brien on July 25, 1925 in Aurora to Martin and Anita O’Brien. Since he was born on Saint James Day, the nuns at the hospital convinced his mother to call him James. He graduated from West Aurora High School, and as a young man, worked as an announcer at his father’s radio station, WMRO. During WWII, he joined the Marine Corps and served his country for more than 40 years in active and reserve duty. After the war, he studied at North Central College, Western Michigan University and before graduating from UCLA in California, he met Margaret Mary Winter. They married in June of 1949 and settled in Aurora where they raised 5 children. Jim was a real estate investor. In his spare time, Jim was a collector and had an affinity for all things associated with beer. He collected beer labels, patches, bottles and signs. Jim also loved to travel with his family. One of his favorite accomplishments was traveling to every county in every one of the contiguous 48 states. Jim was preceded in death by his wife Margaret, his parents, his brother Michael and sister Regina. He is survived by his 5 children, Philip (Carolyn) O’Brien of Vienna Virginia, Paul (Gwynne) O’Brien of Aurora, Karen (Jeff) Beallis of Aurora, Denise (Reynold) Weigelmann of Sugar Grove, and Suzanne (Mark) Phillips of St. Charles and 9 grandchildren Kathleen & Patrick O’Brien, Hallie & Dennis O’Brien, Megan, Margaret & Joseph Beallis, Amy & Reid Weigelmann, and one great grandchild, Rachel O’Brien. He is also survived by his sister Dorothy Butler of Virginia Beach, Virginia and many nieces and nephews. There will be no visitation. A Memorial Mass will be held Friday, August 14, 2015 at 10:00 AM at Holy Angels Church. Fr. Mariana Ery will officiate. Inurnment will follow at Mt. Olivet Cemetery. Funeral arrangements are being handled by THE DALEIDEN MORTUARY, 220 N. Lake St., Aurora, IL 60506. (630) 631-5500. Please visit our interactive website at www.daleidenmortuary.com where you may sign the guest book or leave condolences for James’ family. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the U.S. Marine Corps.

James D. O'Brien

July 25, 1925 - August 12, 2015