Edward Joseph O’Brien, 49, died suddenly on December 3, 2020.
Born April 26, 1971 in Joliet, Illinois to John and Rosie O’Brien, Ed was the youngest of six siblings: John (Reveneal) O’Brien, Bridget O’Brien, Margaret Glasch (Keith), Catherine O’Brien and Monica O’Brien.
Ed attended St. Ray’s Elementary School and then Joliet Catholic High School, where he played basketball and football. After graduating from high school, he attended University of Missouri and then DePaul University. He worked in construction, property management and real estate throughout his career and loved to build things and help people. He was a talented woodworker, a beloved contractor and had the gift of gab. People knew they could call him for any job – nothing was too big or too small. As everyone always says, “Thank God for Ed.”
Ed met his wife, Dr. Therese Plunkett, in 2003 at Joe’s on Weed Street, and they married in 2005 at Old St. Patrick’s Cathedral. He was her rock, and he was so proud of her many accomplishments. Their shared pride and joy are their two daughters Gabby (14) and Madeline (11). Ed loved being a part of the girls’ athletic teams, Irish dance and school events. Friends will always remember Ed as a deeply devoted Dad and fondly recall him in his pick-up truck with the car seats at the girls’ schools, first Cardinal Bernardin and later Immaculate Conception St. Joseph. A friend to everyone he met, Ed loved to play golf and poker and to commiserate about his beloved Bears. He was a loyal, good and decent man and will be missed dearly by those who knew him.
A limited-attendance funeral mass will be held on Thursday, December 10 at 1.30 pm. The visitation will be on Wednesday, December 9 from 4 – 8 pm where the entrance to the church will be regulated and social distancing practices will be in place. Click here for visitation instructions. Both the funeral and visitation will take place at St. Joseph Church at 1107 North Orleans Street in Chicago.
In lieu of flowers, a Go Fund Me has been set up for his daughter’s education. They made Ed so proud.
So sorry for your loss. There are no words that can ease your pain. I send my prayer for your family. Stay strong in these difficult times. May God bless you.
Dear cousin Therese, Gabby and Madeline, I feel so fortunate to have met your wonderful Ed on our visit three years ago. You are in my thoughts daily and I wish you and all of Ed’s family and friends strength in togetherness, love from Tina Smallman (nee Rafferty) in Australia xoxo💚
It is far to young for a good man to go. We send our love and support. Marguerite and Jack wish they could attend in person. We will remember Ed with love.
Dear Dr. Plunkett and her family. I am so sorry for your loss. I send my sincere condolences. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Heartfelt condolences to Therese, Gabby and Maddie. This has come as a shock to all of us. You are all in my thoughts and prayers. May God comfort you all in this tome of sorrow.
Dear Dr.Plunkett, and family sorry for your loss our prayers and condolences to all the family🙏.
May the peace of God that surpasses all understanding be with you during this time of sorrow. My heartfelt condolences to the family.
Dear Therese, please except our heartfelt condolences to you and the girls! I am deeply saddened by the news of Ed’s passing and Tim and I are still in shock! He will be missed and every time i go out on my deck ( the one he built) I will think of him.
I am so sorry for your loss Dr. Plunkett. Sending my best regards
Dear Therese, I am shocked and deeply saddened to hear this. My heart goes out to you and your girls. I am thinking of you and sending you all love. Your friend, Diandra
Theresa, I’m shocked and saddened by the loss of a very good friend. No words can Express the the sadness I feel. My deepest condolences to you and daughters
Our deep and sincere condolences to the O’Brien Family and Friends. We are so sorry for your loss Therese, Gabby and Maddie.
With great sadness,
The Vardis Family