Obituary of Robert James O'Brien

Robert James O’Brien, 95, of Duxbury passed away peacefully at home on January 17, 2024.

Bob “Pop” was born on September 24, 1928, in New York City (Queens), the third son of Thomas and Edna. A family that would grow to four brothers (Thomas, Edwin, Robert, and Donald).

 

At a young age his family moved to the country and put down roots in Suffern NY. This is where

Bob spent his youth and first met the love of his life, Margaret Fagan. As a bright young boy

Bob managed to skip second grade. That decision was serendipitous as it sparked the makings

of grammar school lore. The stars aligned and Bob met Marge for the first time. Like the first

threads in a knitting loom, the weaving of their life’s tapestry started at the age of eight. Now

some eighty-nine years later, a love story too rich to summarize in but a few paragraphs.

Married for seventy-three years – sharing a love that was ever fixed and never shaken.

 

Bob’s success in the business world gave him opportunity to share his love of travel. Bob took

advantage of his hard-earned frequent flyer miles to travel the world together with Marge.

Visits to Europe, Asia and across the great USA were special times. Of course, the best times

were the family’s annual summer vacations to the Jersey Shore. Beach Haven was our paradise

and Bob soaked it in from his chair underneath the beach umbrella.

 

Bob’s success in the business world was always secondary to his life at home. A devoted father

of seven children: Robert, Jr. (Deborah), Margaret (John) Pantazopoulos, John, Sharon,

Eileen (Tom) Reverand, Daniel (Jane), Colleen (Robert) Toms. His proudest and best years were

spent as a grandfather: Robert III, Matthew, Timothy, Casey, Samantha, Thomas, Elizabeth,

Charles, Myles, Cole, Sean, Connor and great grandfather to: Lukas, Annika (who shares

Pop’s birthday!) and Elara.

 

Throughout his life Bob was blessed with the love of many nieces and nephews. He cherished

his role as Uncle Rob – and – Uncle Bob. Celebrating good times at those large family parties was highlighted by late in the evening singalongs and the chance to share his wit and wisdom– if you were lucky enough to be within earshot.

 

Countless friends and neighbors made Bob’s life extra special. Some had the misfortune of being

painted green with a misdirected paint sprayer. Others were just green with envy. A special

bond with Paul and Geri Hahsey provided friendship and peace of mind especially in Bob’s

later years. As a family, we are grateful for their love and kindness.

 

An unstoppable force and a fierce competitor, Bob loved sports and never seemed to lose. As a

longtime member of Marshfield Country Club, he always out dueled his sons. This was true in

most situations be it golf, tennis, ping pong or finishing the NY Times crossword puzzle. His drive

to win or at least claim victory was undeniable. Bob could do it all and the great stories with full

embellishments will always remain with us. We will continue to share stories of his favorite things- golf, Naples FL, ice cream (especially FarFar’s), a Yasso will do, tailgating, unlimited mulligans, ALL CAPS, and a happy hour to share with one and all. And leave the tools in the toolbox – in Bob’s hands someone (himself) is bound to get hurt.

 

Bob will forever be remembered for his profound faith in God, a kind heart, love of family, and

an unabashed love for a family singalong. We ask you to honor Bob’s memory by sharing a song

with your family and friends– happiness is sure to follow.

 

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at Holy Family Church, 601 Tremont Street, Duxbury, on

Wednesday morning, January 24^th, at 10:00 A.M. Burial will follow at the Mayflower Cemetery,

Duxbury.