Shrewsbury – Paul Peter O’Brien, 87, of the Southgate Community in Shrewsbury, formerly of Harwich, died Saturday, April 16, 2016 in his home, surrounded by his loving family.
Born and raised in Dorchester, he was son of the late Frederick and Elizabeth (Bowen) O’Brien. He graduated from Boston Technical High School in 1946, and served his country proudly with the United States Navy from 1946 until 1948. He met and married the love of his life, Mary T. (Murphy), in Saint William’s Church in Dorchester on Oct.4, 1952.
Paul worked as district engineering inspector with the Department of Public Safety, Commonwealth of Massachusetts, for nearly 30 years before he retired.
He raised his family in Wrentham and Shrewsbury before moving to the Cape. He enjoyed photography, sailing, walks on the beach, and hikes in New Hampshire.
He leaves his wife, Mary T. (Murphy) O’Brien, and their 14 children, Kathleen Stevens of Calais, Maine; James O’Brien of Kennesaw, Ga.; Anne Torchia of West Boylston; Paul O’Brien of Hampton, N.H.; Michael O’Brien of Epping, N.H.; Mary O’Brien of West Boylston; Joan Thrun of Webster; Clare Keat of Mauldin, S.C.; Elaine Hadley of Harwich; Maureen O’Brien of Hyannis; Frances Marsh of Belchertown, currently residing in Spain; Daniel O’Brien of Holden; Patricia Bryant of Hardwick, N.J.; and Sheila Towne of Shrewsbury. He is also survived by 53 grandchildren and many great grandchildren. He was predeceased by two brothers, Frederick and William O’Brien, and his beloved aunt, Anna O’Brien.
Paul’s greatest legacy is that of his faith and fidelity.
Calling hours will be held Thursday, April 21, from 5-7 p.m., in the Britton-Shrewsbury Funeral Home, 648 Main St., Shrewsbury. A funeral Mass will be celebrated Friday, April 22, at 11 a.m., in Holy Trinity Church, 246 Main St, West Harwich. Burial will follow in Island Pond Cemetery, Harwich.
