Charles P. O'Brien

Charles P. O’Brien, age 88, of Haverford, PA, passed away on January 7, 2025. Born in Winnipeg, Manitoba, he was the son of the late Charles A. and Viola H. O’Brien (nee Burns).

Charles was the beloved husband of the late Maryse Ann O’Brien (nee Bernard); loving father of Lorrinda Musselman (Kurt), Geoffrey O’Brien, and Christopher O’Brien (Julie); adoring grandfather of Patrick and Brandon Musselman, Benjamin, Caleb, Gavin, Tanner, and Cassidy O’Brien; caring brother of Thomas O’Brien (Sharon) and Mary Wands (the late Bob). 

Charles graduated from Sir George Williams University in Montreal, Quebec with a degree in Commerce. In 1968, Charles earned his Chartered Life Underwriters (CLU) Designation. Charles’ career included many stops along the way, including Sun Life of Canada. His role there brought the family to the United States, specifically Wellesley, Massachusetts. Charles, then moved the family to Philadelphia to become the President and CEO of Reliance Standard Life Insurance. A role he held for over twenty (20) years. 

Charles was an influential civic leader, including Chairman of the American Cancer Society Philadelphia Division 1984 Crusade and Wheels, Inc. Devoted time to International House, Make a Wish Foundation, and the Arthritis Foundation. He was also a long-time member of The Union League of Philadelphia. Passionate about his fitness, playing tennis with Maryse and the kid’s during their childhood years at Waynesborough Country Club and during retirement years, golfing with Maryse and the grandkids at Amelia Island Plantation, Florida. Over the years, Charles enjoyed many sporting endeavors, including curling, skiing, golfing, tennis, and some very competitive family basement ping pong.

Family and friends are invited to Charles’ Visitation 9:30-10:30 AM on Saturday, January 11, 2025 at The Donohue Funeral Home, 366 West Lancaster Ave, Wayne, PA 19087, followed by his Funeral Service at 10:30 AM. Interment Private. 

The Funeral Service for Charles will be livestreamed. Please click on this link for the livestream: https://www.youtube.com/live/6Nsm_Je8Yco

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Charles’ name to American Cancer Society, PO Box 6704, Hagerstown, MD 21741, cancer.org, would be appreciated.