Rodney E. O'Brien

Rodney E. “OB” O’Brien, 87, of Williamsport, passed away Tuesday, February 27, 2024. He is survived by his loving wife of 67 years, Gail L. (Shemery) O’Brien.

Born January 19, 1937 in Bloomsburg, he was the son of the late James W. Jr. and Ethel T. (Reich) O’Brien.

Rodney was a 1954 graduate of South Williamsport High School. He proudly served his country in the United States Navy, helping soldiers to return home after the Korean War and serving as a corpsman at Bethesda Medical Hospital. He was a proud member of the Lycoming County Korean War Veterans, continuing to bestow honors to his fellow comrades after his time in the Navy.

A natural born people person, OB could create conversation and friendships with anyone he met. He worked in sales for over 15 years with Van Campen and as a Ranger for White Deer Golf Course, where he was also a member.

Rodney was very active in his community as a life member of the American Legion Post 251, Montgomery, the Keystone League, F.& A.M. Lodge #106, Williamsport, the Republican Club, and the Zafar Grotto. Rodney was a devout man of faith, as a member of the Messiah Lutheran Church.

OB had an outgoing personality and always made time for his buddies, often meeting at Wegmans for coffee and conversation. Above all else, he loved his family and friends.

Surviving in addition to his wife are their three children, Rhonda L. Koch (Robert), of Williamsport, Karen E. Hostrander (Michael), of Linden, and James W. O’Brien (Cathy) of Montoursville; five grandchildren, Bobby Koch (Brooke), Rebecca Knepley (Brian), Chad Hostrander (Erica), Ryan Hostrander (Nicole), and Katie O’Brien; 8 great-grandchildren and two on the way; and a brother-in-law, Gerald Hammaker.  

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a grandson, Eric J. Hostrander and a sister, Patricia Hammaker.  

A memorial service to honor Rodney’s life will be held 11 a.m. Tuesday, March 5, at Messiah Lutheran Church,  324 S. Howard St., South Williamsport.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made in Rodney’s name to the Eric J. Hostrander Scholarship Fund c/o WASD, Treas. 2780 W 4th St., Williamsport, PA 17701 or to Messiah Lutheran Church 324 S. Howard St, South Williamsport, PA 17702.

Online condolences may be made on Rodney’s memorial page at www.SandersMortuary.com

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