Jack O’Brion

He was born to Gayle Coyer and Jack O’Brion Sr. on Nov. 26, 1955, in Merrill, Wis.

He graduated from Norway High School in 1975 where he met his high school sweetheart, Janet Erickson, and married on Sept. 2, 1978.

Jack found strength in adversity and was a self-made man. He worked at Standard Electric Wittock Supply for many years, where he retired from in 2023. He had a deep appreciation for his faith, an unconditional love for his family and friends, and larger than life personality- befriending every stranger he came across.

He truly saw the best in people, and was always willing to provide a hand up to anyone in need. He was passionate about hunting and fishing, and a true Yooper at heart. His humor, singing, and one-liners will always be remembered.

Jack had a big and loving family. He is survived by his wife, Janet, and their children, Erin O’Brion (Deron) Backlund, Megan O’Brion (Brad) Sarder, Katey (Tom Moore) O’Brion; his grandchildren, McKinlee Peterson, Kylee, Ben, Emmelia, and Jonas Backlund, Emmett and Miles Sarder; grand-dogs, Miley and Breslin. He is also survived by his siblings: Patti Cook, Sherry Nehls, Cindy Mireski, Sally Shivy, Janel Stodola, and Vicki Skoglund, along with many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, sister Jill O’Brion, and brother Tommy O’Brion.

Jack always said to live each day as if it were your last because tomorrow is never promised. He lived by that motto and once told us, “If I die tomorrow, I’m a happy man.” There will be a Celebration of Life, Saturday, Aug. 17, starting at 1 p.m. at the American Legion in Norway, to honor a life well lived.

He loved singing the song “What a Wonderful World” and now he gets to be fishing for eternity — what a wonderful world, indeed.

Forever missed. Forever loved. Forever in our hearts. Cheers to Jack — until we meet again.