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Colonel (ret’d) J. Robert O’Brien
RCASC, Logistics
Died peacefully at the Ottawa Civic hospital on May 8, 2021 at the age of 84. Proudly served his country for more than 33 years in most parts of Canada, with Canada’s NATO forces in Europe and on UN peacekeeping missions in the Sinai Desert (UNEF I) and as Commander, CCUNME on the Golan Heights. In recent years he was an active member of the Canadian Association of Veterans in United Nations Peacekeeping.
Fondly remembered by his high school sweetheart and wife of 59 years Gerri (Boland) of Ottawa, by son Robert (Angela) of Dundas, ON and by the light of his later life, granddaughter Isabella. Predeceased by brothers Jack, Terry and Tom.
A memorial service followed by the interment at the National Military Cemetery of the Canadian Forces will be held on Thursday, May 13, 2021 at 10 a.m. In lieu of flowers, donations are requested to the Perley and Rideau Veterans’ Health Centre Foundation.
Digital Guestbook
Larry OBrien
Jim Fell
O'B you where one of the finest officers I ever worked for and will be so missed by your RCASC Family RIP SIR
To the family Mary and I send our deepest condolences for your loss.
Jim Cameron
Served under O'Bie in C Platoon 1 Transport Company, Germany and he was one of the finest officers I had the pleasure of serving under. Sincere condolences and heartfelt sympathy to family and friends. RIP O'Bie.
Ken Klein
A sad day when a fine officer, gentleman, racconteur and proud member of the Corps passes. Our condolences to the family. Rest in Peace OB
Jerry Gautreau
I do not know of any soldier of my generation, who worked for and/or was associated with Col O'Brien in any capacity who had less than a kind word to say of him. He was a kind, resolute and a respectful senior officer whom I had the pleasure to have known throughout my career as a Log Transportation Officer. RIP, Sir - You will be remembered!!
Ellsworth Wall
Knew O'Bie while serving with B Platoon 1 Transport Coy, Ft Chambly, my condolences to his family may he RIP...
Ellsworth Wall
My sincere Condolences to his family fine officer, he will be missed..
Bill Fletcher
A good friend and mentor, who I will truly miss.
Ken Diamond
I first met Obie when I was on staff at the RCASC School and though I never worked for him we remained friends. We reconnected in later years through the RCASC Association where we ran into each other at various reunions. Always a gentleman he also had a great sense of humour. He will be missed. Rest in peace Sir.
Paul and Marion Greensides
A very sad day to hear this news. Our prayers and sympathy for Gerri and family.
We have been fortunate to experience a man like Bert in our extended family. I found him engaging in conversation about a great range of topics: his military career, social matters, the fabric of Canada, world affairs, and family - always weaving his great experience and thoughtful analysis to enrich the lives of those around him. A wonderful uncle to all of us in the O'Brien clan.