Arthur Willaim O'brien

Suddenly, at his residence in London on Thursday, November 2, 2017, Arthur William "Art" O'Brien in his 88th year. Beloved husband of the late Norma Bernice (Webster) O'Brien (2011). Dear brother of George O'Brien of Barrie, ON. and loving uncle of Colleen O'Brien, Geordie O'Brien and Carrie Martin. Art was well known as a lovable Big Man with a matching robust heart who, for many years, was the calm and helpful voice on the other end of the line for 911 calls to Thames Valley Ambulance where he served for many years as both a Dispatcher and Attendant until his retirement. His retirement years continued in the service of others as he plowed snow through the middle of the night for so many who depended on him. Since 1963 until his death, Art could be found on his off-duty hours and in his retirement as a part time employee of O'Neil Funeral Home who could be called upon at all hours. Born in New Glasgow, Nova Scotia, Art left there at age 17 when he joined the circus to get to Ontario where his varied and interesting life began and which included service in the Canadian Military where his expertise as a great swimmer was invaluable to water rescues. An adoring husband, extraordinary loyal son and friend, Art reveled in the calming beauty and peace of the deep forests, its rivers and its wildlife to which he would retreat as often as he could, accompanied by his much loved dog and longtime friends. His daily presence will be sorely missed by his morning breakfast friends and by Joe & Kate O'Neil and family and staff of O'Neil Funeral Home. Friends are invited to attend visitation for Art in the O'Neil Funeral Home, 350 William St. London on Saturday, November 11, 2017, from 1:30 p.m. until 2:30 p.m. at which time a Memorial Service will be held in the Chapel followed by a reception in the O'Neil Reception Centre. Interment will be private. Memorial donations may be made to the London Humane Society or Salthaven Wildlife Rescue Centre: http://www.salthaven.org/contact-us.