Contribute to Pat O'Brien's Celebration of Life

Joseph Patrick O’Brien, 81, passed away peacefully in his sleep at 3:33 in the morning on May 19th, 2024. He was surrounded by love and comfort in his beloved home.

Pat was born third in line to what would be a family of four boys and of course two loving parents. He grew up in Blue Ridge Summit, Maryland before moving to St. Louis, Missouri with his family as a child. He spent many years in St. Louis before moving to Wichita, Kansas for work at Ralston Purina. That’s when the fun really started. He went on to do so many cool and memorable things.

Just like his infamous hat parties, Pat wore many cool hats: he was a father, a father-in-law, a grandfather, a son, a brother, an uncle, a godfather, a cousin, a wonderful friend, and so much more. Mostly, he was loved.

He was a restaurateur, owning the favored Pat O’Brien’s back in the 70’s. You know the one. You probably even stole one of his fishbowl mugs.

He pioneered the original St. Patrick’s Day parade in Wichita, which still happens every year. Next time you attend that or any St. Paddy’s parade, please drink a green beer and think of ole Pat. He would love that.

He was a true Cardinal’s fan, and continued to be one thru every terrible season they ever had. Now that’s dedication. Try not to give them too much grief this year, for Pat’s sake.

He was a devout Catholic, attending church every Sunday morning at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church religiously for the last twenty or so years.

But the thing nearest and dearest to his heart was being a grandfather to his only grandchild, Issie. Their time together may have been his favorite fourteen years of life. Together they share many special memories, such as Pat dressing up as Santa Claus for her and her friends when she was younger or sharing french fries and ice cream from Freddy’s Frozen Custard.

Pat was hilarious. He was full of boy-like wonder never outgrown. He loved trains and ducks and the ponies. He was determined to make this little life anything but.

If you knew him, you understand this great loss — this void. Death leaves a hole in us that can never, ever be filled. And if you were never fortunate enough to meet Pat, it’s easy to mourn him either way. Not knowing him is just as great a tragedy.

He will be so, so deeply missed. May he be eating all the Imo's Pizza his heart desires.

Pat is now happily reunited with his parents; Edward and Julia, his two brothers; Eddie and Tim, various family members, fallen friends, as well as other loved ones and many canine companions.

Pat is survived by his daughter; Mary Kathleen (Fitz), his daughter in law; Melissa (Moe), his granddaughter; Isabella, his younger brother; Michael, his ex-wife and mother of his only child; Debbie, his forever father in law; Kent, many nieces and nephews, godchildren, cousins, and countless dear friends.

The family wishes to extend special thanks to Phoenix Home Care and Hospice, specifically Pat's second favorite cowboy; Brock. The most amazing team full of caring individuals.

In lieu of flowers, the family is asking you to please consider donating to this GoFundMe. Any donations will go straight towards Pat’s residual medical bills and all costs of his Celebration of Life.

Funeral details:

Celebration of Life will be honored on June 11th, 2024 — his 82nd birthday. Services will be held at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, 2007 N. Arkansas Ave., Wichita, Kansas, 67203. Funeral begins at 11am.

*The family requests all in attendance wear their best green, or something colorful. Please absolutely no black clothing.

 https://www.affordablecremationsplus.com/obituary/joseph-obrien 

Thoughts on Death:

"I hope death is like being carried to your bedroom when you were a child and fell asleep on the couch during a family party. I hope you can hear the laughter from the next room."

"I don't think I'll ever dry out."

"So long, it's been good to know ya..."