Michael J. O’Brien
2/24/0

Michael J. O’Brien, 55, of rural Macomb, died at 11:58 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 16, 2000, at his home.

He was born Jan. 23, 1945, in Monmouth to Clement J. and Rita C. (Morrow) O’Brien. He married Kathleen Neal Dec. 23, 1967, in Monmouth.

He is survived by one brother, Ron O’Brien of Haley’s Harbor; one sister, Kathy (Larry) Johnson of Monmouth; three sons, Matthew J. of Macomb and twins Andrew J. and Michael N. of Aledo; two daughters, Rachel of Aledo and Katie of Davenport, Iowa; one nephew; four nieces; and several great nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Mr. O’Brien attended Immaculate Conception School and Monmouth High School. He then attended Monmouth College for one year before being drafted into the service in Vietnam. He attained the rank of staff sergeant in the Army while in Vietnam, and earned various medals, including the Silver and Bronze stars.

Upon his return, he earned a bachelor’s degree in history and a master's in guidance counseling from WIU.

His first position was at Antioch High School from 1974-77. He then was a counselor and coached girls’ basketball at Westmer High School from 1977 -82. He then went to Union High School in the same capacity from 1982-93 and often broadcasted Union High School sports events.

In 1994, he came to Macomb and was a counselor at Macomb Jr. High School.

He loved history and had special interest in his Irish heritage and the Bible. He also was involved with youth sports programs through the YMCA and the Park District.

His passion was to watch his son and other athletes participate in football and sports in general. His was often seen walking his pet dog, “Keltie.”

Services were Monday at the Heritage United Presbyterian Church in Monmouth, with the Rev. John T. Irwin officiating. Burial was in St. Mary’s Cemetery in Monmouth.