Paul Douglas O'Brien Sr.

Paul Douglas O’Brien Sr., 69, of Great Falls, Montana, passed away on Friday, July 11, 2025, just eight months after the loss of his beloved wife, Ann.

Paul was born on December 20, 1955, in Lockport, New York. A proud veteran, Paul served 20 years in the United States Air Force, retiring as a Tech Sergeant. His military career included roles in Combat Support as a Journeyman, and as a Maintenance Scheduling Craftsman. His service took him around the world — from New York to Texas, the Philippines, and Japan — before settling at Malmstrom Air Force Base in Great Falls, Montana, where he and his family made their home after retirement.

In 1980, Paul married the love of his life, Ankarb “Ann” Kongthong O’Brien, who brought four sons into his life: Michael, Kevin, John, and Brian Bedell. Together, they added two more children to their family, a daughter, Elizabeth, and a son, Paul Jr. Paul embraced the role of husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather with joy and pride. Family meant everything to him. His home was filled with photos of his loved ones, and nothing delighted him more than when a new picture arrived on his digital frame.

He was a man of deep devotion — to his country, his family, and his passions. He loved fishing and often longed for just one more day out on the water. He was a devoted Buffalo Bills fan and treasured time spent playing cards with family and friends. His passing is a poignant reminder of a heart that never stopped loving.

He was preceded in death by parents, Garold and Elizabeth O’Brien; his wife of 44 years, Ann; sister-in-law, Linda O’Brien; and his son-in-law, Alan Frasure.

Paul is survived by his brothers, Gary and Jim (Debbie) O’Brien; children, Michael (Leonora) Bedell, Kevin (Susan) Bedell, John (Joyce) Bedell, Brian (Nicole) Bedell, Elizabeth Frasure, and Paul (Marcie) O’Brien; grandchildren, Krystel Bedell, Sean (Deanna) Bedell, Michael (Emily) Bedell, Ayden Bedell, Kaydra (Matthew) Nelson, Brandon Bedell, Gage Bedell, Emily Bedell, Kai Bedell, Ian O’Brien, and Austin Naude; and great-grandchildren, Liam, Aerith, and Sophia Bedell.

Paul's legacy of love, service, and unwavering dedication to his family lives on in all who knew and loved him.

Details of a memorial service will be shared with family and friends at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to share a memory of Paul, or simply raise a glass in his honor — preferably while watching the Bills play.