Capt. Pat O’Brien passed away Sunday, July 17, following a motorcycle accident on Interstate 95 in Brevard County, Florida, in which he swerved to avoid a vehicle in distress. He was 64 years old.
O’Brien has taken the helm of many a ship, including 230-foot M/Y Skat, 102-ft S/Y Gleam, and 170-ft M/Y Dream.
His wife, Robin O’Brien, a charter broker at Fraser Yachts, said he was doing what he loved most — riding his motorcycle — when he passed away. She wrote the following:
“Patrick Kevin O’Brien was born on March 19, 1952, in Goderich, Ontario, Canada, to Joseph and Mary O'Brien.
Patrick is survived by his loving wife of 25 years, Robin Woods O'Brien, his brother Mike (Barbara), sister Kate, brother Tim (Beverly), brother Tom, brother Gerry (Lorraine), and sister Sheila, and several nieces and nephews. Patrick is predeceased by his parents, Joseph and Mary, brother Dan, sister-in-law Shirley, and their daughter Jenny.
In addition, Patrick will be dearly missed by the entire Woods Family. A highly respected yacht captain for [more than] 30 years, Patrick will be greatly missed by his colleagues and co-workers.
In addition to his many gifts, Patrick built and flew his own aerobatic airplane. He was also a motorcycle enthusiast, avid bicyclist, and faithful animal lover. Some of Patrick’s greatest qualities were his ready sense of humor, his curiosity, and his openness to all things new. A politically astute news junkie, Patrick had a completely optimistic view of the world.”
In lieu of flowers, his family has set up a GoFundMe page for donations to his favorite charities, including Rails to Trails, U.S. National Parks, and various animal rescue organizations. You can donate here.