David George O'Brien

David George O'Brien, 52, passed away unexpectedly at Harrington Hospital in Sturbridge on June 1, 2024.  He was born on June 11, 1971, in Worcester, MA, son to Sandra J. (Lafayette) and Arthur J. O'Brien of Conway, SC.

David leaves behind many that loved and will miss him deeply including his wife of almost 27 years Anita M. (Trombley) of North Brookfield; his children Kimberly Lynn and Thomas David Alan O'Brien of North Brookfield. He also leaves a sister, Jennifer Martin of Charlton and his nephew/godson ChristopherMartin, and nephew Nicholas Martin of Webster. In laws Francis and Joan Trombley of Marlboro, Christopher Trombley, and niece and nephews Shayna, Cayde (godson) and Ryan Trombley of Lunenburg. Close friends include Alan McKinnon of North Brookfield and Christopher Martin of Spencer. Also included in those who will miss him are countless cousins, friends, and his godson Walker Girard of Belchertown. David was predeceased by his grandparents, George and Ruth (Bergeson) Lafayette as well as Arthur and Ellen Mary (Aibey) O'Brien and his aunt and godmother, Bonnie R. (Lafayette) Violette. 

After graduating from North Brookfield High School, David proudly joined and served in the U.S. Navy for 4 years serving aboard the John F. Kennedy. David loved his country and was patriotic through and through. Following the Navy, his career was in the plastics and manufacturing industry. David served as a Field Service Engineer for Nissei Plastics of America and took pride in the work he performed for the company. His work with Nissei allowed him to travel and while he didn't love being away from his family whom he cherished, he loved the opportunity to visit new places and meet the customers he supported.

You could always find Dave at the place he loved most...his home on Lake Lashaway; a place he loved and cherished his entire life. He enjoyed being out on the water taking a lazy boat ride around the lake, but equally loved pulling tubers and teaching anyone and everyone how to waterski. During winter months you could find him ripping up the snowmobile trails in Maine with Al, Chris, and the Maine crew. But he especially loved spending that time with his children Kimberly andThomas teaching them to have fun, but be safe along the trails.When he wasn’t on the lake or plowing through the snow, Dave could be found tinkering in his grandfather's wood shop. There,he was able to reconnect to times past, doing what his grandfather taught him, most recently building a beloved table and chairs for two very special little boys. 

David loved his family fiercely and was not afraid to stand up for them. He made a positive impact on anyone he interacted with. Just a smile, a firm handshake, or a good morning in that characteristic voice had the ability to turn even the worst days into good. And, if you were lucky enough to catch him singing, it was truly a special experience. Those who have known Dave in any manner, have been truly blessed as he was a devotedhusband, father, son, brother, uncle, nephew, cousin, and friend.

You will be missed uncle “Dabe”…

Family and friends are welcomed to a celebration of David's life on Tuesday, June 11, 2024, with a visiting hour from 9:00-10:00am at Emanuel Lutheran Church, 200 Greenwood St, Worcester. A Funeral Service will begin at 10:00am followed by burial and military honors in All Faith's Cemetery, 9 Island Road, Worcester, MA. Friends and family are welcome to return to the church where the family invites all to share stories about Dave.