Bob O'Brien

Robert Allen O’Brien was born on March 25, 1956 to Orla O’Brien in Dearborn, Michigan. After graduation from Lincoln Park High School, Bob went on to work with his dad at Allied Signal. He continued to work there until his retirement in 2009. He was the last person left in the plant when the doors officially closed. Early retirement did not work well for Bob, a man who always needed to be busy, and he soon began to work for a good friend at MMS as a project manager contracted to Ford Motor Company where he continued to serve until his passing.

Bob also worked at the Lincoln Park Roller Rink where he met his wife of 46 years, Judy. Bob and Judy married in 1976 and together had two daughters, Holly and Rachel. Together, Bob and Judy managed the roller rink until 2017. The roller rink, the staff, and the customers were so much more than just people to Bob. They were family.

Bob was a proud man and enjoyed spending time with his family. He never missed his grandkids hockey games or concerts. He loved camping with Judy throughout the summer.

As much as Bob loved his family, Bob enjoyed the legacy of following in his father-in-law’s footsteps and being a Shriner. Bob was raised as a Master Mason in 2005. He crossed the hot sands in June of 2005 and became a Shriner. Bob quickly found his calling in Child Care. He sponsored children and drove them to their hospital appointments. His commitment to the Moslem Shrine continued as he became Child Care Director in 2010. Bob was the Illustrious Potentate of the Moslem Shriners in 2018, a title and duty that he was extremely proud of. Bob served on the Board of Governors for Shriners Children’s Ohio Hospital in Dayton, Ohio. Most recently, Bob had the tremendous honor and was introduced as one of the two Director Generals for the 2027 Imperial Session to be held in Detroit.

Bob was preceded in death by his father, Bill O’Brien. He is survived by his loving wife, Judy; Daughters, Holly (Adam) Michalak and Rachel (Corey) Michalak; Grandchildren, Abby, Collin, Julianne, and Madison; Mother, Orla; and Brother, Fred.

In lieu of flowers, the family is asking for donations to be sent to the following charities that Bob held dear to his heart.

Moslem Shrine (please indicate “Childcare Special Events” in memo)

46850 Grand River Ave

Novi, MI 48374

Shriners Children’s Ohio

One Childrens Plaza, 2 West

Dayton, OH 45404