George Michael O'Brien

George Michael O’Brien, 66, after a brief illness, passed away on September 29, 2026, at IU Methodist Hospital with his loving family by his side. George lived a life filled with family, friendships, sports, and a genuine love for people. He never met a stranger and seemed to know someone everywhere he went.

George graduated from Northrop High School with the Class of 1978. His love of sports and working with young people led him to become an athletic official for the State of Indiana more than 35 years ago. Throughout his career, he officiated basketball, softball, and volleyball, building countless friendships and lasting connections along the way.

George was also an avid Indiana University fan. Whether it was football or basketball season, he proudly cheered on the Hoosiers. Sports were a big part of George's life, both on and off the court, and they provided him with countless opportunities to connect with others.

Through his involvement in sports and his connections with the NEIAOA, George became part of a special community. There was rarely a gathering where someone didn't have a story to share about a game George had officiated. The friendships he formed through officiating were meaningful and lasting, and his presence will be missed by the many people who knew him through the sporting community.

Family was always an important part of George's life. When his children were in school, he proudly became a BOP parent. He even earned his commercial driver's license (CDL) so he could drive the BOP marching band's semi-trailer, a role he proudly held for 20 years. His dedication allowed him to support not only his own children but also the many young people whose lives he touched along the way.

George spent many years working in route sales, a career that suited his outgoing personality and ability to connect with people. This path eventually led him to Prairie Farms Dairy, where he worked for 14 years and became known as "the Milk Man." Once again, George built lasting relationships with his customers, many of whom became lifelong friends.

Whether he was officiating a game, driving the marching band trailer, delivering milk, or cheering for IU, George had a special way of turning everyday encounters into meaningful friendships. He truly never met a stranger.

George will be remembered for his outgoing personality, his dedication to sports and young people, his strong work ethic, his love for his family, and his ability to make everyone feel like an old friend. His stories, laughter, and friendships will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

George is survived by his loving wife, Gidget (Githens) O'Brien; his children, Whitney (Kyle) O'Brien of Fort Wayne, Trevor (Jonelle) O'Brien of Fayetteville, North Carolina, Danielle (Nathan) Havener of Fort Wayne, and Mercedez Franco of Leland, North Carolina; and his beloved grandsons, Kinsington Havener, James O'Brien, and Joshua O'Brien. Sisters, Bobbi (Jeff) Holmes, Jamie O'Brien, Jacki O'Brien, and Terri (Jeremy) O'Brien-Spicer; mother-in-law Donna Githens; sister-in-law Penny (Byron) Webster; brother-in-law Dave (Patty) Keipper; along with many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents Kelly Jr. O'Brien and Mary Jane O'Brien; his sister, Kelli O'Brien, and his brother-in-law, Jeremy Spicer.

George leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, service, and friendship that will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, fellow officials, former colleagues, customers, and everyone fortunate enough to have known him.

He never met a stranger, and his memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

A Celebration of Life honoring George will be held on Sunday, November 15, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the Purdue Alumni Center, located at: 1528 E. California Road, Fort Wayne, Indiana 46805

A moment of silence and prayer will be held at 4 p.m.

Family and friends are invited to gather to celebrate George's life, share memories, and honor the many lives he touched throughout his journey.