Howard E. O'Brien

Howard E. O’Brien, Sr., 88, passed away peacefully on Monday. He graduated from St. Anthony’s High School in Syracuse before proudly serving his country in the U.S. Army during the Korean War.

Howie built a lifelong career in automobile sales. A hardworking Irishman, devoted veteran, and coach for Valley Little League Baseball (where his son played), he was quick-witted and never missed a beat.

Howie cherished time spent with family and friends, splitting his life between Syracuse and Vero Beach, where he embraced every moment. He could often be found cheering for his favorite teams: the NY Yankees, NY Giants, and Syracuse University. Above all, he was a proud father who found immense joy in the family he created and loved deeply.

Howard was predeceased by his loving wife, Margaret Ann; and parents, Howard and Mary O’Brien.

Surviving are his children, Patricia (Jeff) Griffin, Howard (Judy) O’Brien, Jr., Colleen (Patrick) Spiddle, Michelle Jones, and Kathleen O'Brien; grandchildren, Michael (Shauna), Brittney, Courtney (DJ), April (Dan), Logan (Taylor), Sean, Gregory, Jeffrey, and Joey; great-grandchildren, Benjamin, Owen, and Veda, a brother-in-law and sister-in-law, and cousins. 

Services will be private.

Howard will be laid to rest alongside his wife at the Onondaga County Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Syracuse.