John Paul O'Brien Jr., a beloved husband, father, and friend, was born on December 2, 1951, in Coffeyville, Kansas. He passed away peacefully on July 25, 2026, surrounded by loved ones after a courageous battle with cancer. He will be remembered for his fun-loving spirit, big heart, and infectious laughter that could light up any room.

John graduated from Field Kindley High School in Coffeyville in 1969 and went on to serve in the Army after enlisting in 1970. He then dedicated over 30 years of his life to working as a Locomotive Engineer for the Union Pacific Railroad, where he was known for his work ethic and camaraderie with coworkers. After retirement he worked at Quality Motors in Independence allowing him to stay active around cars and coworkers, both of which he loved.  John's quick wit and playful humor made him a favorite among everyone he encountered, including being described as everyone's favorite patient.

Family gatherings were the heartbeat of John's life, filled with laughter, love, and cherished memories. Whether boating, fishing, or traveling to Eureka Springs, his greatest joy came from spending quality time with those he loved. He took immense pride in his family, and his proudest achievements were his children and grandchildren. One of John's most fulfilling moments came by happenstance.  When purchasing an old 1954 Ford truck as a restoration project, he found that it actually was the truck his father had owned years ago.  With help from others and his own sweat, he restored not only the truck, but some old memories as well. In addition to his love for family, John enjoyed gardening, antiques, grilling, and car shows. He relished the thrill of sports, particularly football, track, boxing, and softball in his younger years.

John is survived by his loving wife, Anne O'Brien; his daughter, Stacy Cassida and her husband, Robert Cassida; his daughter, Shari Mullen and her husband, Lee Mullen; stepdaughter Bre Nelson and her husband, Tyler Nelson; and his eight cherished grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his father, John O'Brien Sr.; mother, Edna O'Brien; and sisters, Phylis Thompson and Shirley Vance.

A memorial service to celebrate John's incredible life will be held on August 15, 2026, at 2:30 PM at Potts Chapel in Independence, Kansas. Friends and family are invited to share in the reflections and stories that made John the remarkable man he was. A visitation will follow until 4 PM, allowing everyone to come together to honor his memory.

John O'Brien Jr. lived life to the fullest, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and unforgettable memories. He will be deeply missed but forever celebrated in the hearts of those who knew him.