Eugene "Gene" R. O'Brien

Obituary of Eugene R. O'Brien

Eugene “Gene” R. O’Brien, 81, of Princeton Junction, NJ, passed away at University Medical Center Princeton at Plainsboro on June 17, 2022.

The only child of Edward L. and Marie O’Brien, Gene was born in Newark, NJ and raised in Elizabeth, NJ beforing residing at his home in Princeton Junction until his passing.

Gene graduated with his masters degree in Electrical Engineering and was employed by the Bell System; most recently with Lucent Technologies before retiring. Gene was a long standing member of the New Jersey Society of Professional Engineers and also the National Society of Professional Engineers. Having won numerous awards throughout the course of his career, on Wednesday, June 22, 2022, Gene was posthumously awarded a New Jersey Society of Professional Engineers Lifetime Achievement Award.

A thoughtful and fair man, Gene was a driving force and role model for many young people. He had a passion for robotics beginning in 2004. In 2010, Gene became a Founding Member of FIRST Robotics Mid-Atlantic District. He served as Chair of many committees over his three terms including Chairman of the Board, Chair of Finance and Chair of Recruitment. He lent his knowledge and time to any and all who needed or asked for it, and was known for his commitment to ensuring the team’s success. Gene was a wealth of knowledge and found great joy in exposing children to the world of robotics.

Away from work, Gene found keeping up to date with world news and being involved with politics of great importance. He spent many years on the Planning Board Committee, even having Chaired the Board several times. He was instrumental in managing the winning campaign for the current West Windsor Mayor, Hermant Marathe and several others throughout his political career. Gene enjoyed traveling, whether for leisure or for business. His favorite travel companion was his dog KELTy who could be found in Gene’s car hanging out the window. Gene also spent many years on the greens of various golf courses.

Predeceased by his parents Edward L. and Marie O’Brien and companion of 22 years, Valerie Muenzel, he is survived by his 2 daughters Linda O’Brien and Tara Timblin and 2 granddaughters Kaitlyn Timblin and Emma Timblin. Gene is also survived by his extended family and dear friends he has met along the way.

Viewing will be held on Monday, June 27, 2022 at 10:00am at Saint David the King Roman Catholic Church, 1 New Village Rd, Princeton Junction, NJ 08550. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at the Church at 11:00am. A Repass luncheon will be immediately following.

Interment will be held privately.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made in his memory to FIRST Mid-Atlantic Robotics at (https://midatlanticrobotics.com/donate/)

LINKS

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