Thomas N. O'Brien

Thomas N. O’Brien, age 85, passed away peacefully on February 28, 2026, surrounded by the love of family and a lifetime of cherished memories. Though he has departed this earthly life, those who knew and loved him take comfort in knowing he is now at peace in the presence of the Lord he faithfully trusted.

Tom was born on December 6, 1940, in St. Cloud, Minnesota, to Iris and Jerry O’Brien. He was raised on a farm alongside his brother Dan, where he developed a lifelong love of the outdoors. Hunting and fishing were not simply hobbies for Tom—they were passions that connected him to family and friends throughout his life. He attended Sauk Rapids High School, where he met the love of his life, Yvonne Hanson. The two were married in October of 1959 and shared a remarkable 66 years of marriage built on love, devotion, faith, and unwavering partnership.

Together Tom and Yvonne raised three wonderful children—Tim, Scott, and Beth—in Oakdale, Minnesota. Tom was a devoted husband and proud father whose family meant everything to him. He rarely missed an opportunity to support his children, especially when it came to sports. Whether coaching from the sidelines or cheering loudly from the stands, Tom’s enthusiasm was unmistakable—everyone nearby knew exactly who he was rooting for. Even long after his children graduated, he continued attending Tartan High School basketball games, enthusiastically cheering the team all the way to the state tournament.

Tom was also a man of strong Christian faith. His belief in God helped guide the way he lived his life—with kindness, generosity, humor, and a welcoming spirit toward everyone he met. He valued fellowship, service, and community, and he carried his faith throughout his life.

Music brought Tom great joy. Though he often joked that he couldn’t carry a tune, he made up for it by being the best lip-sync singer around. At the age of 82, he attended an Eagles concert and loved every minute of the experience. In his final hours, music once again filled the room as Tom tapped his finger to the rhythm—his last way of sharing joy and connection with those beside him.

Professionally, Tom worked as a salesman in the wood products industry, a role perfectly suited to his outgoing and energetic personality. With his quick wit, warm smile, and gift for conversation, he could talk just about anyone into buying something. He was truly the life of the party, a natural storyteller, and someone who made friends wherever he went. Even near the end of his life, while living in assisted living, Tom quickly became a favorite among staff and residents alike. His friendly personality and constant conversation earned him the nickname “Mr. Mayor,” as people were naturally drawn to his warmth and humor.

Tom was preceded in death by his beloved son, Scott; his parents, Jerry and Iris O’Brien; his stepfather, Earl Johnson; and his stepbrother, David Johnson.

He is lovingly survived by his devoted wife, Yvonne; his children, Tim (Sue) and Beth Pannier (Jason); grandchildren Katie O’Brien, Sean (Rachael) O’Brien, Ashley (Jake) LaPlante, Jennifer (Sam) Johnson, and Abigail Pannier; great-grandchildren Jay, Journey, Bailey, Macie, Kayden, Hudson, and Bennett; his brother Dana (Ginger); along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

A celebration of Tom’s life will be held on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at 11:00 A.M. at Branch Church, 26710 W. 62nd Street, Shorewood, Minnesota, with visitation beginning at 10:00 A.M. A lunch will follow the service.

A second celebration will be held at O’Brien’s Pub in Rice, Minnesota at a later date. Details will be shared when available.

Tom will be remembered for his deep love of family, his strong Christian faith, his infectious personality, and the joy he brought into every room he entered. Though he will be deeply missed, his legacy of love, laughter, and faith will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.