David L. O'Brien

David Lawrence O’Brien, 75, lovingly known as OB, passed away on September 27, 2025, in Harleysville, Pennsylvania. He was born on March 23, 1950, in Dennison, Ohio, to the late Lawrence and Helen (Carmola) O’Brien.

David is survived by his children: Daniel (Emily) O’Brien of Harleysville, PA; Timothy (Emily Talbot) O’Brien of Lancaster, PA; Stephen (Rucha) O’Brien of Wake Forest, NC; and Stephanie O’Brien of Norwich, CT. He was the proud grandfather of seven grandchildren: Connor, Q, Cleona, Desmond, Clementine, Darcy, and Sayali. He is also survived by his siblings Terry (Susan) O’Brien of Dublin, OH, and Deborah Simonetti of North Canton, OH, along with many beloved nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 46 years, Toni (Altier) O’Brien; his brother and sister-in-law Patrick and Lynda O’Brien; and his brother-in-law Chuck Simonetti.

David graduated from Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio, where he was a proud brother of Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity. He went on to build a long career as an engineer in the manufacturing industry, specializing in raise/lower systems for high mast lighting along highways. Beyond his professional accomplishments, his greatest joys came from his family and the many passions he pursued.

An avid sports fan, David devoted countless hours to coaching, including leading his children’s CYO soccer team at St. Joseph School in Downingtown, PA, to multiple championships. He also coached their recreational teams over the years and never missed an opportunity to cheer from the sidelines.

David was also known for his love of collecting. From sports memorabilia and baseball cards to coins, golf balls, cereal boxes, and even McDonald’s Happy Meal toys, he found joy in the hunt. Hoping to pass this passion on to his children, he took them to many card shows, conventions, and memorable MLB All-Star FanFests in Atlanta and Toronto, teaching them the art of the haggle along the way.

He had a sharp mind and enjoyed keeping it active through crossword puzzles, jigsaw puzzles, and sudoku, often challenging himself and others to think a little harder and dig a little deeper for the right solution.

His interest in genealogy led him to trace his family’s roots to both Italy and Ireland, with visits to Canada to see places where his ancestors once lived. Niagara Falls held a special place in the O’Brien family’s story, creating lasting memories over the years.

In retirement, David and Toni loved traveling together, often riding the train down the East Coast to Florida, where they enjoyed time with Toni’s sister Mary and brother-in-law Paul.

David will be remembered for his dedication to his family, his love of sports, his curiosity, his sense of humor, and knuckle-cracking handshakes. Much like the puzzles he enjoyed, he approached life with patience, persistence, and creativity, always finding a way to piece things together.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association (alz.org) or to your local chapter of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society (nationalmssociety.org).

Arrangements have been entrusted to Falk Funeral Homes, Pennsburg.