John Patrick O'Brien, 56, of Severna Park, MD and Ocean View, DE, died peacefully at home in the presence of his family on January 12, 2014 of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). He aimed to use the challenge of his disease to glorify God, and that he did. He faced his 16 months of illness with unfailing dignity, leaving a legacy of faith-filled courage and selfless love. John was born in St. Louis, Missouri on January 3, 1958. He graduated from Severna Park High School in 1976 and attended the University of Maryland University College. John worked for Northrop Grumman for 28 years and was a charter boat captain of the Semper Fidelis III, run out of Chesapeake Beach.A strong and natural athlete himself, John was an avid Baltimore Ravens and Orioles fan. Growing up in Arnold, the Magothy River was his playground; he developed a passion for swimming, crabbing, fishing, and water sports. During his adulthood he was blessed with a second vocation as a professional fisherman, working alongside his father, who was his fellow charter boat captain. For relaxation he enjoyed kayaking and vacationing at his Ocean View, Delaware home. John deeply valued fellowship and being in the presence of his friends and family, including his faith family. He was a member of the Severna Park Evangelical Presbyterian Church for 28 years. John relished work, play, and service. With no hesitation and abundant enthusiasm, he offered help to anyone in need. His sharing freely of his love and time was returned to him in his final months as friends, family, neighbors, and coworkers beat a path to his door with offerings of love, companionship, and service. Friends and neighbors banded together, hosting fundraisers in his honor. John also inspired thousands of dollars in donations to organizations whose mission is to help those suffering from ALS, raise awareness, and seek a cure. A devoted and loyal husband, father, son, and brother, John is survived by his most cherished wife of 36 years, Suzanne Reese O'Brien; two beloved sons, Sean Patrick O'Brien of Fenwick Island, Delaware and Mark Edward O'Brien of Annapolis, 2 grand daughters, Madyson and Cydney, father, Edward A. O'Brien of Chesapeake Beach; mother, Anne O. Kennedy of Gold Hill, NC; sisters, Julie O'Brien Scheide of Arnold and Meg O'Brien Barrett of Columbia; and brothers, Jamie O'Brien of Arnold and Christopher O'Brien of Columbia. John was the joyous and exuberant anchor of his extended family; he loved and was beloved by many nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, uncles, and in-laws. Friends and family may visit at Barranco & Sons, P.A. Severna Park Funeral Home on Thursday 2-4 & 6-8pm. A funeral service will be held at Severna Park Evangelical Presbyterian Church on Friday at 11am., with interment to follow at Lakemont Memorial Gardens in Davidsonville. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to the ALS Association DC/MD/VA Chapter, 7507 Standish Place, Rockville, MD, 21205 www.alsinfo.org  or the Packard Center for ALS Research at Johns Hopkins, 550 North Charles Street, 7th Floor, Baltimore, MD, 21205 www.alscenter.orgOnline condolences may be made at www.barrancofuneralhome.com