William "Bill" Alfred O'Brien's Obituary
William “Bill” Alfred O’Brien, of Bay Village, OH, passed away on Monday, April 15, 2024. He was 71. He was born May 12, 1952. He is predeceased by his parents Rita Mary (Maddalena) O’Brien and Francis Deasy, and his step-father, Francis “Frank” O’Brien.
Bill was a devoted and loving husband, father, grandfather, cousin, and friend. He will be missed by the many people into whose lives he brought joy, laughter, and good food and music.
Raised in the Hazelwood neighborhood of Pittsburgh, Bill grew up with a strong sense of community that he carried throughout his life.
In his career, he served organizations such the Boys & Girls Club, the United Way, and Pittsburgh Parks and Recreation, creating spaces for people to feel connected to each other and the places they lived.
In his immediate community, Bill coached his daughters’ basketball teams, served as Commodore of the Bay Boat Club, organized neighborhood clam bakes and block parties, and in his retirement, volunteered for the Bay Village Historical Society.
He was devoted to his loving wife of 43 years, Elaine O’Brien. Together they enjoyed traveling, being active, and opening their home every year for the O’Brien Christmas Party, where Bill would often play music with friends until the early morning.
Known as “Nonno” to his grandchildren, Albert and Maddalena O’Brien, they loved cuddling, being silly, and sharing some of his favorites—peanut butter and pistachio ice cream.
Bill had a generosity of spirit that brought people together; his attention to detail made everything he did special for those he loved.
He is survived by: his wife, Elaine O’Brien; his children, Frances and Caitlin, and their spouses Jessica and Chris, and his grandchildren, Albert and Maddalena.
His visitation will be held on Saturday, April 27, 2024 from 12:00-2pm, with a memorial service to follow at 2pm, at Sunset Memorial Chapel, 6245 Columbia Road, North Olmsted, OH 44070.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his name to the Cleveland Food Bank or the Bay Village Historical Society.
What’s your fondest memory of William "Bill"?
What’s a lesson you learned from William "Bill"?
Share a story where William "Bill"'s kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with William "Bill" you’ll never forget.
How did William "Bill" make you smile?