Howard Edward O’Brien, 95, of Yarmouth, passed away peacefully on September 4, 2018.
Howard was born in Rhode Island to John and Lillian (Howard) O'Brien. After graduating from Mount Pleasant High School in Rhode Island, Howard bravely enlisted in the Navy, serving as a radio operator in the Pacific during World War II. Following his honorable discharge, he joined the work force as a custodian at BIF Industries, working with grit and determination until his retirement 47 years later as Director of International Installation and Repair. He married the love of his life, Stephanie (Poshnyk) on April 7, 1947 in Rhode Island. As a devoted husband for 71 years, he carried Stephanie's bridal portrait in his wallet and never missed an opportunity to share the image of "his bride" with anyone he met. Howard was a problem-solver, bright and skilled with his hands and heart. He loved "DIY" projects and renovated the family homes, repaired cars, landscaped and built toys for his beloved children, grand and great-grandchildren.
He was dedicated to his Rhode Island community, proudly serving as the President of the Gaspee Seniors and Grand Knight of the Warwick Knights of Columbus Council 2295, where he organized the first interdenominational religious service in the state. He was a member of the JayCees. With unceasing patience and gratitude, he cheerfully lent a hand to friends and strangers alike, always parting with a hearty "thank YOU" for letting him help. His kindness and optimism were infectious, and he easily made friends wherever he went, with a wink and a reminder that "a smile doesn't cost anything."
Howard was predeceased by his brother, John, and son-in-law, John McCarthy. He is survived by his loving wife, Stephanie; daughters: Stephanie McCarthy, Patricia O'Brien and Deborah (Raymond) Hill; grandchildren: Patricia (Phillip) Kellogg, Maureen (James) Graca, Susan (Scott) Gunn, Raymond (Kendall) Hill, Gregory (Emily) Hill and Lauren (John) Atsalis; and great-grandchildren: Ashley, Connor, Nicholas Graca, Rachel, Brett, Sean, Liam, Seth Kellogg, Lillian, Colleen, Mary Helen Gunn, Raymond, Tallon Hill and a new great-grandchild on the way.
Howard's family extends their sincere gratitude to the staff at Mayflower Rehab and Assisted Living, Emerald Physicians and Cape Cod Hospital who cared for him, held his hand and listened to his stories.
Visiting hours will be from 10 to 11 a.m. on Friday, September 14th at the John-Lawrence Funeral Home, 3778 Falmouth Rd., Marstons Mills. A Funeral Mass will follow at 11:30 a.m. at Our Lady of Victory Church, 230 So. Main St., Centerville. Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, at the Rhode Island Veterans Cemetery.
For online guestbook and directions, please visit www.johnlawrencefuneralhome.com
