Barbara O'Brien

Feb 13, 1923 -

Sep 22, 2020

Barbara Jean O'Brien of Anchorage, Alaska, passed away on Sept. 22, 2020, at the age of 97.

Barbara was born to Walter and Mae Blissitt on February 1923, in Palo Alto, Calif. She grew up as the youngest of three children and attended Sonora High School. In 1951, she married Wilbur O'Brien, which started a life time of travel and adventure. In the many places she lived she always made a comfortable home for their three children. From California to the Yukon Territory - for 8 years! - then finally to Anchorage in 1975. She loved traveling with Wilbur to Australia, Africa and Europe, several times. But her favorite memories were sailing with their friends Captain Jack and Gail van Coevorden on several Holland America ships, where she tried very hard to stay out of trouble!

Barbara is survived by her daughter, Patti Edmundson; her sons, Don O'Brien (Marilyn) and Bob O'Brien Sr. (Gina); grandchildren, Craig Edmundson (Wendy), Stacy Edmundson Wilhelm (Lyle), Laurie Bridges (Scott), Andrea O'Brien, Shelby O'Brien (Tarin), Mary Simpson (Shannon) and Robert O'Brien Jr. (Amber); also several great-grandchildren. Barbara is also survived by her sister, Betty Smith. She was preceded in death by her husband, Wilbur; her parents, Walter and Mae Blissitt; and her brother, Robert Blissitt.

Barbara was laid to rest on Oct. 2, 2020, at Fort Richardson National Cemetery. As per her request, no services were held. In lieu of flowers, donations in her name may be made to the Salvation Army. For additional information contact Patti at: easycruisin@gmail.com.