Edward D. O'Brien, 90 years, of Monroe, MI passed away Tuesday, December 23, 2008 in Medilodge of Monroe after a brief illness. Ed was born November 3, 1918 in Detroit, MI the son of the late John and Helen (Klotz) O'Brien. At an early age Ed's family moved to Maybee, MI where Ed attended school. On October 17, 1957 Ed married his beloved wife the former Barbara A. Meier at St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Church in Monroe. Ed proudly served his country during WWII as a Seaman 1st Class aboard the USS Mount McKinley in the US Navy. Ed was awarded the American Theatre Ribbon, the Asiatic Pacific Ribbon, The Philippine Liberation Ribbon and the WWII Victory Medal. Ed began working at Consolidated Paper in Monroe, he then went on to Jefferson Smurfit Corporation from which he retired as a Purchasing Agent. Ed was a man of strong faith and was a member of St. John The Baptist Catholic Church. Ed was also a member of the American Legion Donald F. Payson Post and various other organizations in Monroe. A remarkably well-read man Ed enjoyed reading and nature. Ed also had a great interest in railroads and navy ships. Ed along with his wife were part of a volunteer group that helped with the preservation of Monroe's Historic Woodland Cemetery. Ed is survived by his beloved wife of 51 years Barbara, 2 loving sons; Patrick R. O'Brien of Toledo, OH and Daniel J. (Susan) O'Brien of Williamston, MI, and 2 cherished grandchildren Keith and Kate. In addition to his parents Ed was preceded in death by his brother Russell O'Brien. Visitation will be Friday from 3-5 PM in the Bacarella Funeral Home, 1201 S. Telegraph Rd. in Monroe. On Saturday, December 27, 2008 he will lie in state at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church from 10 AM until Mass of the Resurrection celebrating his life at 11:00 AM. Fr. Jack Quinlan will officiate. Interment will follow at Woodland Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be given to The American Cancer Society.