William O'Brien

William H. O’Brien, 89, died August 7, 2010 at his home.

William was born July 25, 1921, at the family farm near Friend, NE. He graduated from Friend High School. He served in the Army during WWII, as reconnaissance in Germany.

He enjoyed being a farmer and raising cattle. He worked many years as a US Rural Mail Carrier. William was a true entrepreneur. Just a few of his accomplishments include; owning and operating Shirley’s Desert Gems, starting the Youth Scholarship Program through the Runnells Christian Church, a member of the Polk County Conservation Board and being instrumental in the development of Yellow Banks, Browns Woods and Jester Parks, a proud member of the VFW American Legion and the Runnells Lions Club, a cemetery trustee for several cemeteries in the surrounding areas.

He is survived by his loving wife of 63 years, Shirley; sister, Beverly (Roy) Dop of Apple Valley MN; many nieces and nephews. He served as a father figure to his nephew, Steve Hurd and his niece, Cherrie Porter; and as a grandfather figure to his great niece, Chantel Porter. William truly never experienced meeting a stranger; he will be missed by every life he touched.
He is preceded in death by his parents; two brothers; two sisters.

A funeral service will be held at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, August 10, 2010 at Runnells Christian Church, 101 E. Maple Street in Runnells, burial to follow at the Powers-Warren Cemetery. Visitation will occur from 5-7 PM Monday evening at the church.

Memorial contributions may be directed toward the Youth Scholarship Fund at the Runnells Christian Church in loving memory of William.

www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com

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