Mary Lou O’Brien, 79, of Kearney formerly of North Platte, passed away April 28, 2014 at her home in Kearney. She was born at good Samaritan Hospital January 22, 1935 in Kearney to John and Mary (McVaney) Wink, the youngest of eleven children.
After graduating from Kearney High School she attended Duchesne Academy in Omaha, earning a teacher’s certificate, teaching at Cathedral Elementary in Omaha for two years.
On August 11, 1956 she married Dr. John K. O’Brien. The couple lived most of their married lives in North Platte.
After her children were raised she earned a master’s degree in counseling from Kearney State College. While in North Platte she taught elementary education, was a counselor for Lutheran Family Services, taught religious education for 25 years, and English as a Second Language.
She moved to Kearney in 1999, after her husband’s death. She enjoyed working at Herbergers and was involved in many support groups, continuing her counseling as a volunteer.
Surviving are her children, Patrick (Ronnie) O’Brien of Shelton, Timothy (Maribel) O’Brien of the Philippines, Dennis O’Brien of North Platte and Bridget O’Brien of Omaha; and eight grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her husband; parents; and ten siblings, including her twin brother, Maurice who died shortly after birth.
Memorials are suggested to the Kearney Catholic High School Foundation or to the North Platte Catholic School Endowment and online condolences may be shared at www.adamsswanson.com.
Christian Wake Services will be 5:00 p.m. Thursday, May 1, 2014 at St. James Catholic Church in Kearney with the Reverend Alex Borzick officiating. Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:00 a.m. Friday, May 2, 2014 at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in North Platte with the Reverend Donald O’Brien as celebrant. Burial will follow at Fort McPherson National Cemetery near Maxwell. Visitation will be 9:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m. Wednesday and 9:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. Thursday at Adams & Swanson Funeral Home in North Platte which is in charge of arrangements.