Richard James O'Brien

Richard James O'Brien, 88, of Fulton, passed away on Friday, January 26, 2018, at Missouri Veteran's home in Mexico after battling dementia since 2012. He was born in St. Louis on September 12, 1929, the son of the late James J. O'Brien and the late Agnes (Walsh) O'Brien. On February 11, 1956, Richard was united in marriage to Esther (Zebura) O'Brien. She preceded him in death on January 12, 1991. Later he married Gayla (Talbot) Tichacek on April 2, 2014, who survives his passing. Richard proudly served his country as a United States Marine. He spent his career as a real estate and land developer in the St. Louis area. In 1952, he founded the Richard J. O'Brien Construction Company. He served on the Board of Directors for Florissant Valley Sheltered Work Shop, Black Jack Fire District, St. Louis County Planning and Zoning, and Missouri Fire Fighters Memorial. Richard was a member of St. Peter Catholic Church. Those remaining to mourn his passing include son, Thomas O'Brien of Fulton; daughter, Dana Oldani (Ron) of Fulton; and grandchildren, Ryan Oldani, Stephanie Doerr (Jared), Joseph Oldani, and Kelly Oldani. Richard was preceded in death by his parents; first wife; and sisters, Jean Gantner and Pat Noonan. Mass of Christian Burial will be held St. Peter Catholic Church at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, January 29, 2018, with Father Ron Kreul, O.P. officiating. Friends will be received from 9:00 a.m. until the time of service at the church. Interment with Military Honors will be in Calvary Cemetery in St. Louis. Memorial donations are suggested to St. Peter Catholic Church, Alzheimer's Association or Missouri Veterans Home in Mexico, c/o Maupin Funeral Home, 301 Douglas Boulevard, Fulton, MO 65251. Condolences may be left for the family at www.maupinfuneralhome.com.