Robert O'Brien

Robert Daniel O’Brien, age 102 of Battle Creek, Michigan gained his heavenly wings after a short illness on April 30, 2022 while at the Laurels of Bedford Nursing Home. Preceded in death by his wife of 66 years Sarah (Smith) O’Brien; siblings David (Wanita) O’Brien, Charlotte “Mae” (Lloyd) Haggard, Marjorie (Carl) Britt and Charles (Linda) O’Brien; granddaughter Michelle France-Dobbs.

He is survived by his three children MaryAnn (Wayne) France-Hinton of Battle Creek, Michigan, Roberta (James) Quick of Cosby, Tennessee and Robert O’Brien, Jr. of Battle Creek, Michigan; 12 grandchildren, 29 great grandchildren, 16 great-great grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews.

Robert was born October 31, 1919 in Stalwart, Michigan to Daniel and Marie O’Brien. He married Sarah Smith in 1941 in Sault Ste Marie, Michigan and had three children.

Robert farmed and worked at the Drummond Island quarry before moving his family to Battle Creek, Michigan in 1959. Purchasing a farm in the Harper Creek area he continued farming for a few years before selling it and moving to the city. Robert worked for the Kellogg Airport in maintenance for 25 years and retired for the first time in 1984. Robert was a hard worker and juggled multiple jobs most of his life. He began working part-time at Post Gardens in 1986 and after an 18-year stint he retired the second time at age 85 years young. He had a servant’s heart and was always helping neighbors, friends and family whenever needed.

A celebration of life will be held at the Richard A. Henry Funeral Home (703 Capital Avenue SW, Battle Creek, Michigan) on Thursday, May 5, 2022. Visitation with the family will begin at 1:00pm with the funeral following at 2:00pm. www.henryfuneralhome.org