Obituary of Frank O'Brien Jr.

On January 1, 2025, Francis “Frank” J. O’Brien Jr. passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of love, humor, and cherished memories. Born to Francis J. O’Brien Sr. and Peg (Hagerty) O’Brien, Frank grew up in Rochester, NY,  with his younger brother, Dennis, with whom he shared a messy bedroom in their early years and a close bond throughout his life.

Frank graduated from McQuaid Jesuit High School in 1961 and went on to earn his degree from Saint Michael’s College at the University of Toronto in 1965. Frank was studious and hard-working but hardly a hermit.  He was also intensely curious about the fledgling development of computers and technology - probably due in part to his love of science fiction stories.  As a result, Frank used college as a launching pad to delve into a then-novel field called IT, setting the foundation for his lifelong career.   His love of learning extended to earning his MBA from University of Rochester in 1981; doing a full-time program while continuing to work (and with four young kids at home!).

In 1968, Frank married the love of his life, Barbara (Roth), whom he met through her brother, John (Roth), one of Frank’s closest college buddies. Together, they built a beautiful family, raising four children, Erin (Greg Cicatelli), Meghan (Chris Lacher), Tim (Kate Sutherland), and Molly (Rob Kolb).  Their dad was the cherished cornerstone of all their lives.

Frank was known by many names, O-B and Jack were a couple more, but his proudest title was Grandpa.  He loved being a grandfather and he was good at it - just ask his four grandchildren, Madalynn & Connor Kolb and Rory & Riley O’Brien, who brought immense joy to his life. In addition, Frank enjoyed wonderful relationships with his many nieces, nephews, and godchildren.     

Frank’s career began at Xerox following his graduation from UT.  He excelled as one of the original pioneers in IT. His work there not only showcased his talent and dedication but also earned him the respect and admiration of his colleagues. After retiring from Xerox, Frank embraced his passion for golf and enjoyed many peaceful days (and debated scores) on the greens in Conway, South Carolina.  He was also known to spoil all of his grand-doggies.

Throughout his life, Frank formed deep and lasting friendships, particularly with his “BORF” brothers (a name derived from the first initials of their last names), a close-knit circle of friends who shared a sharp sense of humor and a mutual love for “contests” and camaraderie.  They were the kind of friends you see in Hollywood movies, each outdoing the others with tales (some true) about challenges and conquests.

Frank will be remembered for his wit, warmth, and unwavering commitment to family and friends. He will be profoundly missed, but his spirit and the memories he created will remain in the hearts of all who knew him.

A celebration of Frank’s life will be held at Church of the Transfiguration in Pittsford on Saturday March 29th at 11:00am. 

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Frank’s memory to the American Macular Degeneration Foundation or Lollypop Farm