James Jerome O’Brien

Jim was born in St. Paul, Minnesota on August 18, 1934. He was the only child to Margaret (nee Hirmer) and James O’Brien. He graduated from Johnson High School in 1952. He eventually went to work for Schanno Trucking Company in their sales department then he became the national director of sales with Koch Trucking Company, where he retired from. Jim adored his two sons, David and Kevin O’Brien.

He met the love of his life, Linda Heckel, and the two were married in West St. Paul on July 9, 1982. He happily welcomed her son, Jason Vollbrecht, into his family’s life. When he was not working or spending time with family, he could be found on his motorcycle or houseboat. Jim was a member of the Hamsters USA Motorcycle Club and loved to go out riding. He was also a proud and dedicated member of AA. Anyone who knew Jim could tell you that he was definitely a people person. He had a great sense of humor and was always making those around him laugh. Whenever possible, he would get friends together to go out to eat. He will be missed by all who knew him.

Jim was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s and was battling memory loss. After many medical situations, his family was able to move him to the memory cottages at Prelude of White Bear Lake. Jim passed away during the early morning hours of January 26, 2018. He is preceded in death by his parents, Jim and Margaret O’Brien. He will be dearly missed by his wife, Linda (nee Heckel) O’Brien of White Bear Lake; his two sons, David (Yolanda) O’Brien of Hudson, WI and Kevin O’Brien of Irving, TX; his step-son, Jason (Paul Christian) Vollbrecht of Minneapolis, MN; grandson, Jacob O’Brien and granddaughter, Grace O’Brien; and many other close family and friends.

There will be a gathering for family and friends from 4:00-6:00 PM on Friday, February 9, 2018 at Mueller Memorial, 4738 Bald Eagle Avenue, White Bear Lake with a service at 6:00 PM, led by Pastor Nathan Baker-Trinity of Prelude. After the service, friends and family are invited to join for a luncheon catered by Donatelli's in the reception hall.

The family would like to especially thank the staff from Prelude for their compassionate care of Jim during his final months with them. They would also like to thank all the family and friends who have offered their support during this time. In lieu of flowers, memorials are appreciated to the Alzheimer’s Association or to the family for the charity of their choice.