Robert A. " Bobby / Butch " O' Brien

Robert Andrew O’Brien (Bobby/Butch), died peacefully on April 12th surrounded by family at 75 years old.

Born on August 28, 1950 in Malden, Massachusetts to Robert and Mary O’Brien. Bobby grew up in Medford, Massachusetts where he was the oldest of 6 and spent his life embracing his role as the “little” big brother of the O’Brien family. Bobby attended the Immaculate Conception school in Malden before moving on to Malden Catholic where he graduated in 1968. Bobby proudly attended Boston College, graduating in 1972. He then went on to spend over 30 years working as an IRS Agent out of Boston.

On May, 23rd, 1975, he married the love of his life, Corinne Lawlor, of Malden where they raised their family. They had 2 children, Kristin O’Brien, now of Wilmington, MA and Robby O’Brien, now of North Andover, MA. Bobby and his family spent their summers vacationing in Maine with their large extended Irish family. Bobby spent many years coaching baseball in the Malden Northern Little League, and youth hockey both in Malden and with the Boston Jr. Eagles.

As a child and into his early adult life, Bobby spent time playing wiffle ball in the backyard with his dad and siblings while also spending time with friends at Devir Park in Malden. He loved all things Boston College and was fiercely proud to be an Eagle. Bobby spent many joyful years watching Kristin play volleyball and run Cross country and Robby play baseball and hockey.

Bobby is survived by his loving wife Corinne, daughter Kristin of Wilmington, son Robby and wife Laura of North Andover, brother Jimmy O’Brien and his wife Janet of Lynnfield, sister Maureen Riley and husband Eddie of Melrose, sister Patty Hughes and husband Danny of Melrose, and brother Timmy and fiancé Christine of Melrose. Cherished Grandfather of Brooks and Casey Kelley, of Wilmington and Colin and Brody O’Brien, of North Andover. Cherished uncle of many Nieces and Nephews. Predeceased by father Bob O’Brien and mother Mary of Melrose, brother Billy O’Brien and wife Julie of Grafton, MA.

Bobby’s life was marked by medical challenges he faced from his time of birth until his passing. Despite the continuous medical difficulties he experienced, he never let them alter his commitment to his family and friends. Bobby leaves behind a legacy of courage, a deep love of family, and a lifetime of selflessness that will continue to inspire all who knew him.

Bobby was eternally grateful for the care and compassion he received from the doctors and nurses at Children’s Hospital Boston throughout his life. He credits the cardiologists and numerous specialty doctors for their lifetime of commitment to his care. Bobby’s family asks that in lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Children’s Hospital Boston in the name of Bobby O’Brien.

Visiting Hours will be held at the Gately Funeral Home, 79 W. Foster St., Melrose, from 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM on Friday, April 17th, 2026. A Funeral Mass will be held at St Mary of the Annunciation Church, Herbert St , Melrose, at 11:00 AM on Saturday, April 18th, 2026. Family & Friend's respectfully invited to attend.