Mark S. O'Brien

Mark S. O’Brien, 68, of Superior, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, August 18, 2020 with family by his side.

Mark retired from the Army National Guard after 20 years of service that included deployments to Germany and Panama. He worked for the Superior School District and was a cook and bartender at Who’s Bar in Superior. Mark was awarded the Wisconsin Governor’s Award for life saving service.

Mark was an incredible athlete; he was the goalie for the 1971 SSHS State Champion Hockey Team as well as multiple other championship teams.  He, his SSHS teammates and coaches were inducted into the Superior Athletic Hall of Fame in 2011.

If you knew Mark, you know what a kindhearted person he was. We often said he would give you his last nickel even though he didn’t have one for himself.  He was an amazing cook and if you ate one of his ham dinners or famous breakfasts, we are sure you still remember it today – Christmas morning breakfasts for his family were his specialty.  He danced an impressive Jitterbug, could quote Gunsmoke or Louis L’Amour verbatim, and mixed a great cocktail.

Mark was preceded in death by his parents John “Jack” and Shirley (Anderson) O’Brien; and treasured Uncles Lawrence “Buddy”, Roger, and William “Billy” Anderson.

Mark is survived by his daughter Jamie (Josh) LaRiccia; brothers Tom (Ann Murray), Mike (Sharie), Scott (Shawn), Pat (Kristi); sister, Cheryl (Jack) Pillsbury; uncle and best buddy Robert “Punky” Anderson, and many nieces and nephews. Mark’s daughter and his grandchildren Ryan and Cameron LaRiccia were the pride of his life.  The family would like to thank Susan (Michaelson) Del Priore for her support in Mark’s final days and for always remaining part of the family.

If you wish to make a donation in Mark’s memory, please support the Superior Amateur Hockey Association (SAHA).  Mark would love to see more kids on skates.

The Lenroot-Maetzold Funeral Home, 1209 E. 5 ^th Street, Superior, is assisting the family with arrangements. To leave a condolence or sign the guestbook, please visit our website at www.lenroot-maetzold.com.