Yvonne Lorraine O’Brien

Yvonne Lorraine O’Brien

Yvonne Lorraine O’Brien, daughter of Valentine and Julienne Maes, born November 6, 1928 in Seattle died October 8, 2023.

Growing up on Beacon Hill, she attended St. George Elementary School and Cleveland High School. Following graduation, she worked as a switchboard operator. She met and married Thomas J. O’Brien and they began raising a family. The children thrived under their nurturing care. Yvonne was a loving and devoted wife and mother. When she had a rare night off, she enjoyed dancing with Tom at the Knights of Columbus and playing bingo with her mother and sisters. After 32 years of marriage, Tom died in 1982. Yvonne continued to be the cornerstone of the family. At her home, she hosted birthdays and holiday celebrations that included family traditional dishes, joyful laughter, and the voices of children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren creating a glorious raucous. Yvonne lived in her home for sixty-one years before moving to Florence of Seattle where she found thoughtful caregivers guided by Laurie. Her children continued to visit her everyday until she passed. Devoted to her family and cherished pets, she left a legacy of love characterized by unselfishness, hard work, and boundless giving.

Yvonne is survived by her children: Eileen Kirschner (Robert), Ed O’Brien (Paddy), Tim O’Brien (Melinda), Michael O’Brien, Thomas O’Brien, and Patricia Lehr (Robert); grandchildren: Robert Kirschner Jr., Anna and Conor O’Brien, Jordan Molner, Shaina Cushing, Kadi O’Brien, Maggie and Benjamin Lehr.  She is also survived by her sister Elaine Maes, sister-in-law Barbara Maes, her 6 great grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her parents; her sisters, Mildred Driscoll and Marie Maes; and her brothers, Walter and Remi Maes.

A Catholic mass will be held at St. George Catholic Church, November 11, 2023, at 10:30 am; followed by a reception at St. George School auditorium.