Martin “Marty” Timothy O’Brien, age 73, of Lafayette, Indiana passed away on September 13, 2026. Marty was born on April 13, 1953, in Brooklyn, NY to Martin Spalding O’Brien and Agnes Theresa (Crowley) O’Brien. He grew up all over the United States and Europe, as his dad was active-duty military. Eventually, they landed in Louisville, KY, where Marty attended DeSales High School.

The eldest of four children, Marty lived a life rooted in family and friends. He joined the military after high school graduation and served in the air force for 20 years. He was extremely proud of his military service.

On July 20, 1973, he married his love, Kathleen “Kathy” Marie Nohalty of Louisville, Kentucky and so began their beautiful life together with the additions of their two children, Todd Michael and Aubrey Ann.

Marty loved sports. When his children were little, he coached them as well as countless other children in baseball and softball. College sports were also loved in their household, though it was a house divided: Marty and his Kentucky Wildcats, and Kathy and her Purdue Boilermakers.

Later, Marty warmly welcomed daughter-in-law, Anne, and son-in-law, Troy, to the family. A jokester, who loved to tell stories, Marty continued this tradition with his beloved grandchildren, Mae, Lily, and Jack. He was always joking around with them. When his family needed him, Marty showed up.

In his professional life, after retiring from the military, Marty worked in various service and managerial capacities, ending his career at Purdue University as a Property Account Manager. In his leisure time, Marty loved golf and fishing, which included a beloved yearly fishing trip to Canada with dear friends.

Marty was preceded in death by his parents, Martin and Agnes. He is survived by his wife, Kathy; children, Todd O’Brien (Anne), and Aubrey Whaley (Troy); grandchildren, Mae O’Brien, Jack Whaley, and Lily O’Brien; brother, Dennis (Joanie); sisters, Kathy (Jim) and Maureen (Annie); and numerous niecesand nephews.

A Celebration of Life for Marty will be Saturday, November 7, 2026 from 4:00pm to 6:00pm at Walt’s Pub & Grill, 1050 Kalberer Road, West Lafayette, Indiana 47906.

Memorials in Marty’s name may be made to Broad Ripple Haverford Little League by clicking the “Donate” button above.

Marty will be remembered for his warmth and caring, passion, his stories, and his love of his family.

In Memory of Martin “Marty” Timothy O’Brien

All memorials made on this page will go to support Broad Ripple Haverford Little League