Thomas Lee O'Brien was born on September 23, 1944, to Robert and Ethel O'Brien in New London, Wisconsin. He is survived by his loving wife, Judi and children Matthew (Emily) Ditzler and Heidi (Rob) Scott, along with five grandchildren who were his pride and joy. Tom was third oldest of 16 children and spent his happy childhood in the Manawa area. He is preceded in death by his parents and two brothers Jim and Bill. Tom proudly served in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War on the aircraft carrier, U.S.S. Oriskany. He owned several small businesses in northeast Wisconsin including O'Brien Home Center and Advantage Sunrooms. The role he valued most was being Dad and Grandfather. As an avid snowboarder, he became a Vail certified snowboard instructor when he was 60 years old, and he loved teaching kids of all ages to ride. Tom would say the best days of his life were on the back-bowls of Vail.  He viewed life through a positive lens and he "always tried to give love back to the world." Most importantly, he knew Jesus as his LORD, Savior and Friend and his deepest desire was for others to believe.

A celebration of Tom's life will be held Saturday, June 12, 2021 at Appleton Alliance Church, 2693 Grand Chute Blvd, Appleton, WI.   Visitation will begin at 12:00 p.m. followed by the celebration of his life at 2:00 p.m.  The family requests that attendees wear celebration colors. (no black)  A dessert and coffee reception will follow the service at the church's mission house.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to Fox Valley Memory Project.