Obituary of William B. O'Brien
William “Bill” O’Brien
William Burke O’Brien, 80, of Vernon, formerly of Clinton, NY, passed away at his home on Friday, December 8, 2023.
William was born at St. Elizabeth’s Hospital in Utica, NY on July 11, 1943, the son of William Paul and Berneece (Burke) O’Brien of Clinton, NY. He graduated from Clinton Central School and cherished his time on the high school hockey team. Bill received a Bachelor’s degree from Syracuse University (Utica College campus) and a Master’s degree in Education from Syracuse University. He went on to teach Social Studies at Morrisville Eaton High School for over 30 years, intent on educating his students on the history and lessons of World War II. In 1998, he was recognized by the senior class to serve as commencement speaker.
Bill belonged to and until recent years remained active in William Russell American Legion Post #404 in Vernon, NY. His interests included horse racing, jazz music, and American history, with primary emphasis on WWII.
Bill is survived by his daughter and son in-law Cassandra Anne and John Firlet, and two grandchildren Avery Firlet and Eric Firlet, all of Cary, NC. He was a steadfast and generous father and grandfather with intentional focus to create indelible memories and an enduring positive impact on his family. He is also survived by his sister and brother in-law, Maureen and Richard Beidleman of Clinton, NY.
Services, entrusted to R.P. Heintz Funeral Service, Inc., 10 East Park Row, Clinton, will be held privately at the convenience of the family.
Those wishing to donate in his memory may contribute to Morrisville Eaton High School “William O'Brien Scholarship Fund” (C/O Morrisville Eaton Business Office, P.O. Box 990, Morrisville, NY 13408) or to the William Russell American Legion Post #404, 5192 W Seneca St., Vernon, NY 13476.
Online memorial and guestbook available at www.rpheintzfsi.com.
