Obituary of James Bartholomew O'Brien

James Bartholomew O’Brien, age 92 of Hollywood, FL, beloved husband of the late Ruth Baker O’Brien, died peacefully surrounded by his family on April 26, 2016, in Waterbury. Born in Waterbury on April 16, 1924, he was the son of the late James and Mae Calo O’Brien. Mr. O’Brien was raised in Waterbury and was the 1942 Class President of Leavenworth High School, Waterbury. Following his high school graduation, he entered the U.S. Army and proudly served his country as a Staff Sergeant, Company B, 87th Chemical Mortar Battalion in Normandy, Northern France, Ardennes, Rhineland and Central Europe. He was awarded the Purple Heart, European-African-Middle Eastern Ribbon with a Silver Star, Distinguished Unit Badge, as well as the Good Conduct Medal. Returning stateside following WWII, he entered Bryant College where he earned a Bachelor’s Degree. Mr. O’Brien resided in Waterbury and Watertown, until relocation to Hollywood, FL in 1962. He was the founder, owner and operator of the Disposable Plastics and Gator Plastics Companies, until his retirement in 2004 at the age of 80. A man’s man, he was a cigar aficionado, quick with a joke and known to enjoy a gin martini. He was an avid golfer and member of the Watertown Country Club. He is survived by his devoted children, Patricia (Joseph) Aesif of Watertown, James (Julie) O’Brien of FL, and Karen O’Brien of Waterbury; cherished grandchildren, Michael (Jamie) Aesif of Watertown, Dr. Scott (Ine) Aesif of WI, Melissa (Craig) Cope of Watertown, James (Lorena) O’Brien III of FL, Nicole Welsh and Jaime Welsh of FL; as well as 6 great-grandchildren. In addition to his wife of 58 years, he was predeceased by a sister, Kathleen O’Brien. Jim's family would like to sincerely thank Simone Adres, his caregiver of 7 years for her love and wonderful care that she provided. A Graveside Service with Full Military Honors will take place on Thursday, April 28, 2016 at 2:00 PM in New St. Mary Cemetery, Ansonia. The Wakelee Memorial Funeral Home, 167 Wakelee Avenue, Ansonia is in care of arrangements. Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Assoc., 2911 Dixwell Ave., Hamden, CT 06518, www.alz.org. Online condolences may be made at www.wakeleememorial.com.