Obituary of John David O'Brien

October 7, 1969 – Saint John, New Brunswick

May 8, 2022 – Calgary, Alberta

John David O’Brien, beloved husband of Melissa Hill, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, May 8, 2022. He was 52 years old and has left this world too soon.

John was born on October 7, 1969, in Saint John, NB. He left the east coast early in life to pursue the mountains of the west coast, settling in Banff, AB, and residing there for many years. In his free time, John enjoyed searching for the perfect addition to one of his many antique collections.  He had a variety of occupations over the course of his life, starting small with film labs and souvenir stores and then moved on to enjoy many years owning the men’s clothing boutique store “Boulder” in Banff.  He owned a condo in Canmore, AB, and enjoyed a robust social life building friendships that would last a lifetime. Shifting occupations brought him to Calgary where he met the love of his life, Melissa. Most recently, he acted as a sales manager for Icon Wines and Spirits, of Select Wine Merchants here in Calgary. John was described by his coworkers as authentic and kind with a contagious smile.

He loved his kids and has passed down his love of rock music and live concerts to his son Logan who regularly sings “Paradise City” by Guns and Roses. His daughter Grace loved her dad beyond measure and says that he’s watching her play soccer from Heaven. John loved his family fiercely and valued providing for them.

John leaves behind his wife Melissa, and two young children, Grace, and Logan. He is survived by his sister Christina McLaughlin (Bill) of New Brunswick; brothers, Michael O’Brien of British Columbia, and Kevin O’Brien (Krista) of New Brunswick. He will be sadly missed by several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his Mother Marilyn and Father Frank O’Brien of Saint John, New Brunswick.

A Funeral Service will be held at McInnis & Holloway (Park Memorial, 5008 Elbow Drive Southwest, Calgary, AB) on, Friday, May 13, 2022, at 2:00 p.m. Family and friends who are unable to attend in person are invited to join Mr. O’Brien’s service streamed live (see below) on the day of the service. For those who are unable to view live, a recording of the service will be posted. Condolences, memories, and photos can also be shared and viewed here.

In living memory of John O’Brien, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Chapel of the Bells, 2720 Centre Street North, Calgary, AB T2E 2V6, Telephone: 403-243-8200.

Click Here to View John O'Brien's Memorial Card

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