About John O'Brien
In Loving Memory of John O'Brien
(1950 - 2026)
John, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully with his family by his side in October 2026 in Arizona following a valiant cancer battle. Born in New York City ("his city") in 1950 to Harold and Theresa, John lived a life defined by quiet strength, deep devotion to his family, and a steadfast commitment to his country.
A proud patriot, John honorably served his nation for four years as a Vietnam Air Force Veteran. Following his military service, he built a dedicated and enduring telecommunications career with AT&T, where he worked for 43 years until his retirement.
Above all else, John cherished his family. He shared a beautiful, remarkable 56 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Lainee. Together, they built a loving family, raising their sons (and welcoming their wives). His legacy continued to grow through his 3 grandsons, 6 granddaughters, 6 great-grandsons, and 2 great-granddaughters. Known for being patient, kind, loyal, and patriotic, John's greatest joy was simply being present for the people he loved, especially attending his family's events and milestones.
John is survived by his loving wife, Lainee; his children; his grandchildren; his great-grandchildren; his brother, Tom; brothers- and sisters-in-law; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents; his mother- and father-in-law; 2 brothers-in-law, and other loved ones.
Service Details
Family and friends are invited to honor and celebrate John’s life at the following services:
- Visitation: Monday, October 19th from 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM at Bunker Family Funeral Home (3529 E University Drive, Mesa, AZ 85213).
- Funeral Mass: Tuesday, October 20th from 10:30 AM – 11:30 AM at All Saints Roman Catholic Church (1534 N Recker Rd, Mesa, AZ 85205).
- Burial with Military Honors: Tuesday, October 20th from 12:30 PM – 1:00 PM at the National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona (2929 E Pinnacle Peak Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85024).
- Celebration of Life: To follow immediately after the burial in Mesa.
In lieu of flowers, John’s family kindly requests that donations be made in his honor to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation (T2T.org).
Arrangements by Bunker’s University Chapel, www.bunkerfuneral.com. Should this obituary appear anywhere but bunkerfuneral.com, please check our website for accurate details and service information.
