P. John O’Brien, III
Phillip John O’Brien III, 71, passed away at 12:18 a.m. on December 4, 2018, while recuperating from surgery at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics (UIHC) in Iowa City, IA.
Born on January 14, 1947, in Quincy, IL, to Phillip and Vivian (Orschel) O’Brien II, John married the love of his life, Jean Wiewel, on October 6, 1972. He was a beloved father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend to so many. While this was indeed an unexpected loss, we find peace in recognizing what is surely a joyful reunion in Heaven with his late wife, Jean, who passed away in 2010.
His reliability was unmeasured, particularly in his work. John O’Brien Locksmith was a household name for years throughout Quincy; he worked hard to build his business and support his family. He always took care of his girls! Prior to running his own business, John managed the Quincy Sand Company and always enjoyed a day spent on the Mississippi River.
John was a member of St. Francis Solanus Catholic Church for decades where he regularly served as an usher and oversaw the Building and Grounds Committee and Holy Name Society at different times. He was also a third-degree member of the Knights of Columbus Council 583, a 1965 graduate of Christian Brothers High School and an Eagle Scout.
He was a kind, unobtrusive, soft-spoken Irishman who loved his Busch Lite and a nickel game of cards. In his younger days he could often be found sipping a beer at Larry’s Tavern at 18th & Chestnut, and he later acquired a taste for good wine.
John is survived by his three daughters Kelly Sinnock and her husband, Brandon, of Cedar Rapids, IA, Colleen Schlipman and her husband, David, of Payson, IL, and Kathleen Pesha and her husband, Frank, of St. Peters, MO; nine grandchildren Keagan, Courtney and Alexa Sinnock, Breana and Phillip Schlipman, and Gavin, Skylar, Sadie and Griffin Pesha; sister Janet Monk and her husband, David, of Cedar Rapids, IA; and numerous nieces, nephews and other relatives.
John was preceded in death by his father, Phillip John O’Brien II; his mother, Vivian (Orschel) O’Brien (who was remarried as Vivian Gilbert); and his wife, Jean (Wiewel) O’Brien.
Visitation will be at Duker & Haugh Funeral Home in Quincy on Sunday, December 9, 2018, from 3:00 to 7:00 p.m. Funeral services will be Monday at 9:30 a.m. in the Duker & Haugh Funeral Home with a Funeral Mass at St. Francis Catholic Church at 10:00 a.m. Services will be conducted by Rev. Don Blaeser, OFM. Interment will be in Calvary Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, please send memorials in John’s name to St. Francis Solanus Catholic Church or the Quincy Notre Dame Foundation.
And so let us raise our glasses to John, in honor of a life well lived by His good and faithful servant:
“Those we love don’t go away,
They walk beside us everyday,
Unseen, Unheard, but always near,
Still loved, still missed and very dear.”
– Ireland Calling
Sorry to read about your father’s death. He was a super great guy – helped us few times. We will remember him and each of you in prayer.
Our deepest sympathy to you Colleen, Katie and Kelly. So sorry we could not make the visitation but wanted you to know that your dad was a special guy and always enjoyed seeing him. Now he and your mom are together again smiling down on all of you.
Our hearts are breaking. What a wonderful man who will be missed by so many. The memories we have from all those wonderful years our families were so close are so precious to us. Please know how much we love all of you. May God’s loving arms embrace you during this difficult time.
Praying for John’s family. All of his girls, and their beautiful families. Being reunited with Jean in heaven, I’m sure could not make him more happy. I pray that they watch over their daughters and their families, and help them find peace during this time of loss.
John was my first little playmate. We lived across the street from each other on Spring Street. We spent many many hours together as buddies. It was a real shock to read of his passing. I would like to extend my heart felt sympathy to all of his family. Rest in peace John. Maybe some day we can play Cops & Robbers again.
Well, I’m sad to see this. I drive by the house everyday. I was just wondering about John today. John was a man’s man. I remember pulling him on skis behind my boat years ago, he was a fun guy. He was always at the SF Parish Picnic bartending on Friday nights during setup. His smile was contagious! He opened up many vehicles for us over the years. So long John, God Speed! My thoughts and prayers go out to his family.
John was such a great neighbor. He was so good to our girls and they loved him. This was such a shock to us. He is already dearly missed but also happy that he is with Jean. Thoughts and prayers to all of you.
The Haskins Family
To the entire O’Brien family:
It was with a sad heart I read the news of your loved one. He was a fantastic husband and father for you all. I had countless conversations with him over the years at school. He was such a supporter of education and loved his family so dearly. I will pray that God brings you only the memories of the great times you shared together. God Bless
Lonny
Prayers to the entire family
He was a great father, grandfather and friend.
He is with Jean
Kelly, Colleen, Katie and family. Kerri and I send our sincere the loss of your father. Having spent a fair amount of time around you and your family, I know he loved your mother and cared deeply for you and your families. I pray for peace and understanding as you walk through this most difficult time. Your mom and dad are together once more and I’m certain they are smiling upon you all. God Bless!
Colleen, Dave & Family,
We are so sorry to hear of your loss. We send you our love. God bless John in heaven.