William E. O'Brien II

O’Brien,II, William E. “Bill” entered into rest December 23, 2023, aged 62 years, surrounded by his family. Beloved father of Katie G.(O’Brien) Thomann and Sara E. O’Brien; devoted grandfather of Gracie and Emma Thomann; Loving son of the late Donald and Frances O’Brien; cherished brother of Elizabeth F. O’Brien; dear uncle of Jordan T. Wesley; lifelong confidant and partner of Linda M. O’Brien. Bill graduated from Amherst High School in 1979, though his grades may have not shown for it. He often could be found singing with the Sweet Sixteen Chorus. In 1981, he was hired at Great Lakes Orthodontics as a Study Model Technician and soon after got the opportunity to travel as an International Sales Representative. He made lifelong friendships and met his wife during his 39 year career there. During that time coworkers turned to friends and became family as they spent many days and nights enjoying Hertel Avenue in Buffalo. This unique friend group shared engagements, weddings and starting families alongside each other. In 1987, Bill welcomed his first daughter Katherine “Katie” and shortly thereafter in 1989 his second daughter Sara. Bill’s proudest moments included watching the girls graduate from high school and college, Katie getting married and having children, and Sara winning an Emmy Award for her accomplishments in broadcast journalism. He also took the time to teach them old school elegance and food entertainment. He was an avid golfer, world class traveler and self-taught food critic and enthusiast. Bill shined the brightest during the holiday season with his homemade delicious cookies and pastries served as a yearly tradition. His cooking and baking were an art form and truly a gift to everyone that was lucky enough to enjoy them. Bill had a magnetic and vibrant personality and an unmatched sense of humor. He will be sadly missed by friends in Buffalo, those he made while traveling, and especially by his family who adored him. Arrangements by Dengler, Roberts, Perna Funeral Home. Relatives and friends are invited to visit with the family at 8:45 AM prior to attending a Mass of Christian Burial at Christ the King Church, 30 Lamarck Dr., Amherst, NY 14226 on Saturday, January 6th at 9:30 AM. Please assemble at church. In lieu of flowers, please take a page out of Bill’s book today and make someone laugh.