1958

Constituents Deceased list

James Raymond O’Brien ’58 was born Nov. 9, 1936, to Raymond and Mary O’Brien in Chicago. He attended Serra High School in San Mateo and became a Santa Clara Bronco who played baseball, completed ROTC, became a radio personality, and graduated with an English major. He went in to the Army and served as captain at Fort Ord in Salinas. During that time he married the love of his life, Joan Gail Owsley-Cain. He then moved to Lake Tahoe to begin a career in real estate. James and Joan had four children and a home filled with love and laughter. He was a successful and influential pillar of the Tahoe community, serving as husband, coach, fundraiser, cemetery board volunteer, Knight of Columbus, and great father. James’ zeal for humor and smile were infectious. His entrepreneurial spirit and faith never wavered. His pursuits helped other people realize their dreams. He seldom walked away with his proverbial shirt, as he would give it to anyone who needed help. We will miss his lists, puns, wooden egg, patience, humanity, love, and smile. His soul went to be with the Lord on Dec. 6, 2018, where he will be met by the open arms of his son, Kevin James O’Brien. His honesty, humility, loyalty to family, friends, and country will leave a hole in this world that will most likely never be filled. He is survived by his wife, Joan; sister Patricia Koewler; and children Kathleen (Kate), son-in-law Rick, Maureen (Princess), Timothy (Palsy), and daughter-in-law Julia. He also leaves behind grandchildren Kyle, Amanda, Nicholas, Henry, and Hannah.

30 Jan 2019