Joseph Gilbert O'Brien went home to be with the Lord on Saturday, January 3, 2026, after a long and courageous battle with Mesothelioma. Joe was in the presence of two of his brothers Ed and Dan, at the time of his passing.

Joe was the youngest child of Francis (Red) and MaryLue (Brown) O'Brien of Waterville, NY. Joe was born on January 6, 1963. Joe graduated from Waterville Central School and attended The State University at Delhi.

Joe was one of seven children, he was the brother of Robert (Joyce) O'Brien of Harrisburg, PA, Edward (Elizabeth) O'Brien of Sauquoit, NY, and Daniel (Robin) O'Brien of Dillsburg, PA. Joe had many nieces and nephews, and many greats as well. Joe was predeceased by his parents, his sister, Susan Mulata, brother Patrick (Darla) O'Brien, and his sister, and best friend, Penny O'Brien. Joe was a quiet, and observant man.

Joe was an avid hunter, and angler. Joe found much peace when fishing, and also sharing his knowledge and skills with his great nephews. Joe would seldom give up a chance to get outdoors doing what he loved most, and in the fall when the salmon were running the Salmon River at Lake Ontario, you would always find Joe right in the midst of it.

Joe also adored all the wonderful canines that he adopted through the years.

Early on, Joe worked in asbestos removal where he contracted Mesothelioma, developing years later. After which he worked for Carbone Honda where he was the head of Automotive Detailing.

A special Thank you to his niece Hilary, who oversaw her Uncle Joe during his difficult days dealing with this illness, privately, and while at Waterville Residential Care Center.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, January 17, 2026 from 2-4pm at the Burgess & Tedesco Funeral Home, 210 E. Main St., Waterville, NY 13480.

A memorial service will follow at 4pm at the funeral home.

it was Joe's wish that in lieu of flowers, to please consider donating to your local animal shelter.

To send a condolence online, please visit www.burgessandtedescofuneralhomes.com