Contributions to the tribute of Julie O'Brien

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Richard and Rosemary Mazurek posted a condolence

Saturday, April 13, 2024

Julie and Obie. Just hearing their names has always brought a feeling of comfort, fun, excitement and now, sorrow. We met on a Nile River cruise in Egypt. The first night was the get acquainted party. Rich was ready early and went down alone. Several minutes later Rosemary followed and was very intrigued. She saw a blonde, slinky beauty surrounded by a circle of attentive men. Rosemary hightailed it over to see what was up and quickly found herself under the spell of one of the most wonderful women we'd ever known. Obie was in attendance with his sparkling eyes, ready welcome smile and caring heart. This all created a friendship that lasted not just for the trip, but for life. It was a fabulous, our favorite of so many because we met this O'Brien couple. Our friendship grew over the years as we continued to travel between Michigan and New York. We played cards, the guys played tennis and we shared story after story. They were a selfless, gracious couple for us to emulate. We are definitely better people for having known them and miss them terribly. We send you our deepest sympathy and sincerely hope we can stay in touch with their family. Richard and Rosemary Mazurek

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Bill & Margaret O'Kain posted a condolence

Thursday, April 11, 2024

Margaret and I were saddened to hear of Julie’s death and recall fondly the times we spent with her. They were always a lot of fun. We will miss her, and her great sense of humor.. We loved the old photo of Julie and OB that was posted on the website. For us, this picture really captures their joie de vivre.

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Karen O'Kain posted a condolence

Wednesday, April 10, 2024

I was the luckiest kid in the world to have Julie as my cousin. She was four years older than I; in my eyes she was a person full of grace, wisdom, and joy. I always looked forward to spending time with her when there were school holidays, especially on summer holidays when we got to have time for adventures of our own, undisturbed by big Christmas or Easter gatherings. Julie was my best friend, my model of what I wanted to be like, and a mentor in how to grow up. In thinking back on our lives, I cannot recall a single incident of our relationship that was unpleasant or difficult. Julie was generous in giving of her time and love to me. I will always be grateful for that. You O'Brien sons and daughters are especially blessed to have had Julie as your mom. I hope you fill the hole of her absence with all your wonderful memories of her and how she helped you become the people you are today.

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Kate Renahan Posted Apr 11, 2024 at 11:55 AM

Hi Karen! So lovely to hear from you! Mom often talked about the summers she spent with you - both lucky!! And I felt like the luckiest kid to have your mom, my GREAT Aunt Doris! She and Grandma Sullivan/Great Aunt Margaret would bring me to Toronto to visit you, Gardiner and Josh every summer for the international festival. And YOU gave me my first real novel - James Michner, making me a lifelong reader of 'good' books. I hope sometime we'll all have a visit. love, Kate

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Joe P posted a condolence

Tuesday, April 9, 2024

A tough life warrior who threw back all that was thrown at her with her BIG Irish smile and Hearty laugh. Best to OB too. Joe P.

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