Daniel K. O'Brien M.D.

Daniel K. O’Brien, M.D., 76, of Springfield, passed away on October 23, 2023, at HSHS St. John’s Hospital. A kind man with a great sense of humor, Dan’s legacy will continue through his children, grandchildren, and the many lives he touched over the course of his career and every day.

Dan was born on May 13, 1947, the son of Kenneth William and Alphild Leona Pladsen O’Brien, in Waukon, IA. He married Elizabeth Ann Louden on August 22, 1971, in Grinnell, IA.

He graduated from Waukon High School, received his bachelor’s degree from Luther College in Decorah, IA, earned his M.D. at the University of Iowa, and completed his medical residency at the University of Minnesota, Smiley’s Point Clinic. He practiced medicine for 40 years, retiring from HSHS in 2016. He was certified in family practice with special interest in geriatrics and rural healthcare.

As a physician, Dan was known for his compassion, concern, honesty, and sincerity. As a teacher, he was known for his intellect and authenticity, and he guided his medical residents well. As a friend and neighbor, he was known for his wit, generosity, and loyalty. As a husband, father, and grandfather, he gave his all. His family was always his first priority, and his love was their sure and steadfast anchor.

A giant in stature, standing at a memorable 6’5”, Dan’s range of interests was vast, and his children inherited his intellectual curiosity. He enjoyed gardening and collecting vintage post cards. He dabbled in furniture making. He was a voracious reader, a solver of puzzles, and a fan of many sports, never losing his passion for the Iowa Hawkeyes. He always had music in his heart and a song (or a whistle) on his lips.

He was a man of many gifts, and to many, Dan O’Brien was a gift.

Dan was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Patricia O’Brien Rehder; and brother-in-law, Denny Rehder.

Left to mourn and remember him are his wife, Liz; children, Anne (James) of Arlington, VA; Timothy (Abagail) of Milwaukee, WI; and Peter (Katherine) of Ames, IA; sister, Colleen (Ron) Randel of Tyler, TX; grandchildren, Marie, Rosalie, and Maeve; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A private family ceremony will be held in accordance with Dan’s wishes.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to The Parkinson Foundation, The Joy of Movement, a local organization serving Springfield, IL, or a charity of the donor’s choice.

The family is being served by Butler Funeral Home - Springfield, 900 S. 6th St.

Dan O’Brien was such a good man.