Edward J. O'Brien Sr.

Edward graduated from Marquette Catholic High School, Alton, Illinois, Class of 1957. Following graduation, he served with the U.S. Navy on the USS Shangri-La aircraft carrier including a Mediterranean tour of duty.

While in the service, he married his high school sweetheart, Mary Johanna Peipert and they settled in the St.Louis area.

He retired from Boeing Aircraft after a 30-year career as an expediter and member of the Machinist Union.

Ed was active in Alcoholics Anonymous sober since April 7, 1979. He impacted many lives working with troubled teens and adults, and supporting AA prison outreach programs.

He enjoyed the St. Louis Municipal Opera, and briefly worked as a train conductor at the St. Louis Zoo during his retirement.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his second wife, Melba Joan Hughes; siblings James R. and his wife Shirley of Alton, William F. Jr., Mary Ann (Mennerick), Catherine (Rose-Gibson).

Surviving in addition to his first wife, Mary (Peipert) Lindsay are his brother Paul, sons Edward Joseph, Jr. (Judy), Thomas William (Cathie), and Timothy Paul (Traci); daughter Elizabeth Ann White (James Furr); 11 grandchildren, 4 great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

A Rite of Committal will be held Monday, October 30 at 1pm at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery, 2900 Sheridan Road St. Louis MO 63125, where Full Military Honors will be bestowed.

Family and friends are invited to gather for a Celebration of Life at Mac’s Downtown, Alton, Illinois Monday, October 30, from 4 to 7 pm.

In lieu of flowers, please make gifts in his memory to your local Salvation Army.

Arrangements by Hoffmeister Colonial Mortuary.