Ralph L. O’Brien, 85 of Huntley, died peacefully, September 18, 2016 with his family by his side.
Visitation will be Wednesday from 4:00 to 8:00pm at DeFiore Jorgensen Funeral Home-10763 Dundee Road, Huntley. A funeral Mass will be celebrated Thursday, 10:00am at St. Mary Catholic Church-10307 Dundee Road, Huntley. In lieu of flowers memorials may be directed to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, Wounded Warrior or Journeycare Hospice.
Ralph was born February 19, 1931 in Chicago, Illinois the son of Ralph and Mildred O’Brien. He served in the US Airforce from 1951-1955. In 1957 he married Eileen Marie McHale. He worked for Illinois Bell/Att until his retirement. Ralph was a devoted husband, father and grandfather, he enjoyed traveling, doing Sudoku puzzles and his greatest joy was attending his grandchildren’s activities. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.
He is survived by his wife, Eileen, his children, Kevin (Lou Ann) O’Brien, Terrence O’Brien, Mary (John) Smerecky, Wendy (Timothy) Papka, Kristie (Leonard) Scarpelli. He is survived by his grandchildren, Devin, Tyler, Kevin, Michael, Erin, John, Teagan, Jake, Kyle, Francesco, Leonard, Dominic and Anthony. He is also survived by his sisters, Joan Fernandes, and Carolyn (Robert) Marek and by his brother, William O’Brien and also by many nieces and nephews. Ralph is preceded in death by his parents, Ralph and Mildred and his mother and father in-law, Raymond and Eileen McHale.
For further information, please call the funeral home at 847-515-8772 or on-line condolences may be directed to www.defiorejorgensen.com
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My deepest sympathy to Eileen and Ralph's children. I will always remember Ralph's warm welcomes when we met and how much you could see his love for Eileen and his family. His humor was exceptional and his kindness was appreciated. May he rest in peace.
So sorry to hear about Ralphs passing. Had a great time with Ralph when we worked as travel agents together. My sincere condolences to the family. He will surely be missed by many.
Fondly remember all the OBrien's especially Ralph. We worked together to give our kids a better summer for years. I'm sure he will find a place in heaven.
I was sorry to learn about Ralph's passing. Although I didn't know him well I recognized him to be a great person. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family M6g281
So very sorry to hear of Ralphs passing. My dad worked with Ralph and I enjoyed fun with Wendy. There were always great stories from them both about him and the family. Peace to you all.