Lawrence O'Brian

Lawrence Carmen O’Brian, lovingly known as Larry, passed away on May 19, 2025. Born on February 20, 1949, in Ogdensburg, New York, Larry was the eldest son of Carmen “Mike” O’Brian and Eunice Marianne Gladstone O’Brian. Raised in upstate New York, Larry spent his early years helping his father on the family’s cattle farm, working long hours with a strong sense of responsibility and grit. Larry was the proud younger brother to Linda, whom he loved to tease, and older brother to Billy, Steve, and Wayne. The family eventually moved west to California, where Larry graduated from Colusa High School and pursued further education in real estate, welding, and health care. Growing up, his best friend Lance was always by his side. As a young man, Larry enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, serving in Force Recon in Vietnam from July 10, 1968, to May 20, 1970. He was honorably discharged as a Corporal and was a decorated veteran, earning a Purple Heart, Silver Star, Bronze Medal, two Good Conduct Medals, and numerous other commendations for his bravery and service. After his military service, Larry joined his father in the construction business and later moved with his family to Wenatchee, Washington. There, his father founded O’Brian Painting and Industrial Sandblasting, where Larry worked on high-rise and dam projects, mastering the art of high-steel painting. It was in Wenatchee that Larry met the love of his life, Theresa Snyder. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and family. They raised their son, Jason O’Brian, who later married MiyYong O’Brian. Larry was a proud grandfather to two cherished granddaughters: Neoki Granquist, who is expecting Larry’s great-granddaughter, Connie Mae, this August with her husband Collin; and Mila O’Brian, who will soon begin her studies in criminal science and pre-med at the University of Las Vegas. Larry had a deep love for animals and children. With his long white beard and warm smile, he was often mistaken for Santa Claus by little ones and affectionately compared to a member of ZZ Top by adults. His favorite pastimes included fishing—always with two tackle boxes and fresh worms at the ready—watching car shows, and attending drag races in Spokane and Seattle. One of Larry’s greatest joys was riding his beloved Harley, “Lucille.” He often said it made him feel free, and he’d find any excuse to hop on and ride into town. Later in life, Larry became a long-haul truck driver, a job he adored. With Garth Brooks playing on the radio, he found peace and purpose on the open road. In August 2018, Larry was involved in a serious semi-truck accident that left him hanging upside down in his cab until good Samaritans came to his aid. Over the next seven years, he endured nine surgeries and lived with constant pain from two rods and 25 screws in his body. Despite his suffering, he remained strong and resilient. Larry is now reunited in heaven with his beloved dog Maggie, his brothers Bill, Steve, and Wayne, and his parents. He leaves behind his devoted wife of 42 years, Theresa; his son Jason and daughter-in-law MiyYong; his granddaughters Neoki and Mila; his great-granddaughter-to-be, Connie Mae; his sister Linda O’Brian Eggert and her husband Barry; his brother and sister in-laws Jim, Nancy and Brian Snyder and many nieces, nephews, and a newly born great-great-nephew, Weston DeLarenzo, whom Larry affectionately called “Little Man.” Until we meet again, Larry—ride free, rest easy, and know that you are deeply loved and missed every single day. A Memorial Service will be Friday, August 1st, 2025, 1:00 pm, Chapel of the Valley, 378 Eastmont Ave., East Wenatchee, WA. Arrangements by Chapel of the Valley, East Wenatchee.

Lawrence O'Brian

February 20, 1949 - May 19, 2025