O'Brien dead at 47

By: Louie Rosella August 18, 2008 12:01 PM - From being drafted by an NHL team to growing his own business into a GTA-wide success, Bob O'Brien was always at the top of his game.
A longtime Mississauga resident, who was drafted from the Dixie Beehives to the Philadelphia Flyers in 1980, O'Brien died last Thursday after a long, courageous battle with cancer. He was 47.
He's survived by his wife, Lisa, and children, Matthew and Brendan.
"He enjoyed the game and shared his talent with many young people, especially his sons," said Lisa.
After hockey, O'Brien attended Humber College, where he and Lisa met, and then, together, they attended Brock University in St. Catharines. He started his company, Brenmar Heating and Air Conditioning, in 1999 and successfully ran it until his passing.
Funeral services are today at 1 p.m. at Turner & Porter funeral home (2180 Hurontario St.).
Family members ask that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to Make a Wish Foundation.
lrosella@mississauga.net