Dedicated to Navy’s Trident submarine program; helped save Hillview
Published September 3, 2020
COCOA BEACH, Fla. — William “Bill” O’Brien, 79, passed away on August 25, 2020. Bill was born in Malden, Mass., on May 10, 1941, the son of William and Winifred O’Brien, and grew up between Malden and North Reading.
Bill earned his associate’s degree in Electrical Engineering from Northeastern University and spent his entire career at Draper Laboratory. Over Bill’s 55-year career he was responsible for overall coordination and execution of Guidance and Fire Control Test Operations in support of the Navy’s Trident submarine program. He utilized his extensive knowledge of Guidance System architecture and performance analysis to lead the design and the development of new test platforms, improve existing capabilities, perform evaluation of Trident missile flight tests, and educate staff.
Bill was also a primary developer of the Trident Aircraft Pod test program which continues today in providing unique test capabilities using an Air Force F-15E Strike Eagle. His greatest attribute was that he was always willing to take the time to mentor others and pass on his vast knowledge to future generations.
Bill strived to make the community better for his family and others. He helped start the North Reading youth soccer league, worked on the town commission to acquire and manage the Hillview Golf Course in North Reading, and gathered resources to build the Ipswich River Park. Even in retirement, Bill wanted to improve the quality of life for those around him. For years, he served as president of the Coral Seas Condo Association, meticulously monitoring the budget, overseeing major renovation projects, and assisting neighbors at all hours of the day. He was loved for his gentle wisdom, tireless work ethic, and genuine concern for the well-being of others.
In his free time, Bill enjoyed traveling with his wife Marge, relaxing at the family cottage in Maine, boating, visiting with his family and grandchildren, and playing golf.
Bill was predeceased by his mother and father, Winifred and William O’Brien, his sister Joan (O’Brien) Case, and his nephew Michael Case. He is survived by his wife, Marjorie; his two sons, Michael and his wife Susan, and Christopher and his wife Jessica; his four grandchildren, Taylor, Katie, Collin and Shane; his niece, Joanne Campbell and her husband Doug; his nephews, Scott and Jeremy and his wife Becky Shore; and his sister-in-law Janet and her husband Alan Shore.
His funeral service was held at Our Saviour Catholic Church, 5301 N. Atlantic Ave., Cocoa Beach on Saturday, August 29. The family received friends from noon to 1 p.m. at the church prior to the service.
In lieu of flowers contributions may be made in Bill’s memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Pl, Memphis, TN 38105 (www.stjude.org).
The Beckman-Williamson Funeral Homes and Crematory was in charge of the arrangements. To leave an online message of condolence, please visit: www.beckman-williamson.com.