Obituaries : Don Charles O’Brian

Don Charles O’Brian, age 80, passed away on Sunday, October 5, 2025.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 AM, Friday, October 10, 2025, at Springs of Life Church (2300 26th Street NW) in Cedar Rapids, with Rev. Chad Garrison officiating.  A reception will follow the service at the church.  Family Interment with Graveside Military Rites will follow the reception at Oakwood Cemetery in Shellsburg.  Friends may visit with the family from 9:00 AM until service time at the church on Friday.  In Lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established. 

Don was born on February 22, 1945, at the Schmitz Maternity Home in Urbana, to James and Lois (Graham) O’Brian.  Don graduated from Shellsburg High School with the class of 1964.  He served his Country in the United States Army Reserve.   He married the love of his life, Victoria Deloris “Dee” Smith , on March 1, 1969.  Don was a devout family man, and proud of all of them.  He was always there to help when needed.  He enjoyed going to the grandkids activities and cheering them on.  He loved watching the Hawkeyes and his beloved Cubbies.  Family was an important part of his life, and he will always be remembered as a kind, and gentle man. 

He is survived by his sons, Rob (Pam) O’Brian, Rus (Brenda) O’Brian and her four grandchildren, Aly (Justin) Livingston, Lauren O’Brian, Dalton O’Brian and Grace O’Brian; her great-granddaughter, Taytum Livingston; and his brother, Larry (Darlene) O’Brian  

Don was preceded in death by his parents; wife of 56 years, Dee; and his sister, Shirley Douthart. 

Don worked as a welder and machinist throughout his life. He worked at Harnischfeger in Cedar Rapids and retired from Terex in Cedar Rapids.

Dee and Don both loved decorating outside for the holidays.  The grandchildren will always remember the Halloween parties they hosted. Camping and fishing were other hobbies they enjoyed—Pleasant Creek and Rock Creek State Park were a couple of his favorite spots.  

Online Condolences: www.phillipsfuneralhomes.com