John J. (Jack) O'Brien (88) peacefully passed away on July 22, 2024 at his home. Born on February 12, 1936 in Independence, MO, John attended DeLa Salle Military Academy, and graduated as Commandant of his class of 1954 and was a U.S. Marine Reservist. In 1955, Jack married Dorris J. Clark; they were married 67 years until her passing in 2022. John was employed with TWA/American Airlines for 43 years, and was a devoted member of St. Charles Borromeo Parish and School since 1962. He was an avid Chiefs fan as a season ticket holder and an original member of the Wolf Pack Club. He was also a member of the Lions Club of Gladstone.
John's hobbies included gardening, cars, and collecting model trains. He built and maintained a full model train display that was a highlight for young and old. As a member of the KC Lionel Train Club, he was an active volunteer at Union Station after retirement, and received numerous awards for hours of volunteering. John also supported and attended his children and grandchildren's many games and activities. You could always plan on a big St. Patrick's Day celebration at his home where all were welcome. He will be remembered for his honesty, faith, jokes, and funny faces.
John is preceded in death by his parents Hugh and Mary O'Brien, his wife Dorris, his brother Patrick M. O'Brien, and his son-in-law Johnny Scott. He is survived by his brother, Joe (Linda) O'Brien; his six children, Dianna Scott, Dan (Julie) O'Brien, Karen (Randy) Mots, Monica (Ned) Stevens, John (Tina) O'Brien, and Colleen Montgomery; 14 grandchildren (Meaghan, Brendon, Allie, Laurie, Patrick, Katie, Kelsi, Tony, Jake, Dylan, Olivia, Lauren, Lindsay, and Lia); 17 great-grandchildren; 2 great-great-grandchildren; 6 nephews and 1 niece; and his loyal, canine companion, Emmy.
Friends may call Thursday, August 1, 2024, at St. Charles Borromeo Parish, 900 Shady Ln. KCMO. Visitation begins at 10:00 with funeral mass at 11:30, burial following at Resurrection Cemetery, 5001 Cookingham Dr., KCMO. The family would like to thank John’s caregivers. In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory can be made to St. Charles Borromeo Parish and St. Croix Hospice Care.
