Obituary of Thomas O'Brien

Tom O’Brien, of Westville, passed away in his family home on March 2, 2017 at the age 70. Born in Westville, he was the son of the late John and Christy O’Brien. He lived a happy childhood growing up in homes on Spring Garden Road and North Main Street, where he eventually raised his family. In 1965, he met Norma Dooley and together they shared 52 years of love, happiness and dedication. He adored her every move. He would regularly say to his three children “Look at her…she’s so beautiful. Oh, how I love that woman.” During his 30 year career with Nova Scotia Power, he worked as a Stationary Engineer (first class) and in 1989 was promoted to Shift Supervisor. He was active with IBEW in various roles, a member and volunteer with the Westville Business Association and the Westville Citizen’s Crime Prevention Association. He was a carpenter, an entrepreneur, an artist, a dedicated volunteer, a fabulous cook, a cake decorator and a chocolatier. He enjoyed being politically active, camping in Lochaber, travelling across Canada (especially Alberta) and throughout the United States. He researched genealogy, collected historical photographs, watched the stars, tracked passing airplanes and kept a keen eye on the international space station. He was dedicated to family and his friends; you just had to ask and he would be there for you. He was predeceased by his parents, his brother Kenny and his infant sister Marion. He is survived by his loving wife, Norma, daughter Tracy (Bruce Annand), daughter Nicole (Blaine Dobinson) and son Pat (Jennifer). His three grandchildren Jordyn, Hayley and Dylan will miss their “Papa Tom” and all his loving hugs. Tom is also survived by his sister Elizabeth (John Gillis), brother Dan (Kay), brother John (Mae), brother-in-law George Dooley (Anne) and brother-in-law Leigh Dooley (Kathy), nieces: Christa, Angela, Alanna, Lynette, Kristin, Susan, Cathy, Janice, Patty and nephews: Wade, Kevin, Mike, Steve and John. The O’Brien family would like to thank Dr. John Forbes for his guidance. A special thanks to the VON nurses, especially Susan and Sheila, for the exceptional home care. Cremation has taken place. Visitation took place on Monday, March at Eagles Funeral Home. His funeral service was held in the Eagles Funeral Chapel on Tuesday, March 7 at 11:00 am. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Aberdeen Hospital Palliative Care Unit.