Thomas D. O'Brien

Thomas D. O’Brien, 80, of Kerhonkson, NY, died Sunday, May 9, 2010, at his home.

Thomas was born on June 18, 1929 in Manhattan; he was the son of the late Thomas and Clare (Barker) O’Brien.

Thomas grew up on the Upper East Side where he attended the NYC Maritime Schoolship - S.S. John W. Brown. He learned how to work on Military Vessels and Merchant Ships which prepared him for a life long career with the Merchant Marines.

Mr. O’Brien worked in Manhattan as a Boiler Inspector before being called to active duty with United States Navy during the Korean Conflict. He served aboard the USS Eldorado where he earned the National Defense Medal and the China Service Medal. Following his honorable discharge Thomas returned to sea with the United States Lines as an Engineer and Naval Reserve Merchant Marine Officer for the next 28 years. He retired in 1988.

Thomas was an active, life member of the Kerhonkson VFW Post 8959 and the American Legion in Staten Island.

Thomas is survived by his wife Margot Dannecker O’Brien at home, whom he married on July 7, 1962, his son Thomas J. O’Brien of Kerhonkson and his daughter Margot K. Higgins of Staten Island, two granddaughters Clare and Julie Higgins and his cousins Josie Havern and Rita Gish.

Thomas was predeceased by his brother John F. O’Brien.