John Michael O'Brien, a resident of Fort Lauderdale, son of Matthew Joseph and Florence Rose O’Brien passed away on January 7, 2016, at age 78 due to a long battle with cancer. He was married for 54 years to Carol Gatti O’Brien and is survived by his caring wife and three loving children, John, Jr., Patrick Joseph, and Erin Elizabeth (Whaley), and their spouses Susan, Lynn, and Jerry. He was an adoring grandfather of 8: Jennifer, Michael, Matthew, Mark, Maura, Liam, Ryan, and Calum.

He is preceded in death by his sisters Mary Claire, Nancy, Mary Frances, and brother Joseph.  His loving, surviving sisters include Catherine, Tossie (Florence), Helen, and Maureen.

John was a graduate of the Jesuit school Spring Hill College in Mobile, Ala. After graduation, he entered the service in the Marine Corp. He was known for his sense of humor and comradery. He was later a Post-Commander of the American Legion, post 86.

John was a loyal employee of the Ford Motor Co. for 37 years developing computer systems both in the United States and abroad. He was a chief architect of the WERS computer system currently in worldwide use.

John Michael O'Brien was a committed and engaged father in his children’s sporting events. In later years, he extended his love for family to nieces and nephews especially during numerous family events.

A special thanks is extended to the oncology department at Holy Cross Hospital.

In lieu of flowers, a donation may be considered to the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society http://www.nmcrs.org/donate.