Obituary of John O'Brien

John Francis O’Brien passed away unexpectedly in his home on July 17, 2014. He was born on August 10, 1950 in Cambridge, Massachusetts, to John and Pauline O’Brien. He was raised in Charlestown with his three sisters. He attended Malden Catholic High School and by virtue of his basketball scholarship was able to attend Worcester Polytechnic Institute, graduating in 1972 with a BS in Mechanical Engineering. On May 18, 1974, he married Marilyn, the love of his life and wife of 40 years. His job with General Electric moved them from Connecticut to San Jose, California, where they spent the first six years of their marriage. In 1980, they made their home in Eugene, Oregon, where they raised their two children, John and Briana. He was the President/CEO of Spectra-Physics and led the organization with passion and commitment until 1996. His knowledge, leadership and relentless pursuit of excellence were keys to the success of the business. At the same time he was able to create a culture and winning team spirit that lived far beyond his tenure. He later served for several years on the Board of Directors of Datalogic SpA, assisting the company with several acquisitions including PSC, Informatics and Evolution Robotics. He was an avid golfer, cyclist, outdoorsmen, and created many beautiful pieces of furniture for his friends and family in his woodshop. Despite moving to the west coast he never lost his love for the Red Sox. He will be remembered most as a loving husband and father, a devoted friend, and a favorite Grandpa. A celebration of his life will be held on Monday, July 28, at 1:00 PM, at the Eugene Country Club. Arrangements entrusted to Musgrove Family Mortuary. Please access the obituary and you are invited to sign the guestbook at musgroves.com