Joseph B. O'Brien passed away on Christmas Day, December 25, 2016 at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston. He was born in Melrose on March 19, 1931 to the late Edward P. & Grace A. (Walsh) O'Brien. Joseph was raised in Melrose, graduated from Melrose High School, Class of 1950 and has been a lifelong resident. Mr. O'Brien attended the University of Wyoming, left school and enlisted in the US Army. He served his country with pride in the US Army during the Korean War and was a highly decorated veteran, recieving two bronze stars for his bravery. After his discharge he returned to Melrose and worked as a truck driver for Pier Fish & Seafood Company in Medford for over 40 years. He was a longtime member of Most Blessed Sacrament Church in Wakefield where he was instrumental in developing the Boy Scout Troop 725 in Wakefield. Joseph was a Boy Scout Leader for over 30 years retiring in 2005, 3 years as a Cub Scout leader, 20 years as a scout master and 10 years with the National Catholic Committee on Scouting. Mr. O'Brien was also instrumental in starting the Melrose Youth Soccer program. He loved to travel with his two sons and family meant everything to him. Joseph was the beloved husband of the late Rebecca "Rita" (Laverty) O'Brien. Cherished father of Christopher E. O'Brien & Kevin M. O'Brien both of Melrose. Caring brother of the late Eleanor, Eddie, Bobbie and Dotty. Loving brother-in-law of Matthew & Eleanor Lafferty of Wakefield, Patricia & Jim Gallagher and Michael & Theresa Laverty all of Greenock Scotland. Also survived by numerous nieces, nephews and friends. Funeral from the Gately Funeral Home, 79 W. Foster St. Melrose, on Thursday, December 29, 2016 at 9AM. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Most Blessed Sacrament Church, 1155 Main St. Wakefield, at 10AM. Relatives & friends are respectfully invited to attend. Visiting hours Wednesday from 4:00-8:00PM. Interment at VA National Cemetery in Bourne. In lieu of flowers contributions in Joseph's name may be made to the National Catholic Committee on Scouting @ www.nccs-bsa.org.