Michael T. O'Brien

Michael Thomas O’Brien was born on November 11, 1941 in Fort Dodge, Iowa, and passed away peacefully on November 2, 2026 in Apache Junction, AZ.

Mike grew up in Pocahontas, where he graduated from Pocahontas Catholic High School in 1960. Shortly after graduation, he joined the United States Air Force, beginning a chapter of his life dedicated to serving his country.

After leaving the Air Force, Mike married Carol Ray Mueting, also from Pocahontas. Together, they built a life and raised two sons, Ted and Tom. Their family and the years they shared together were an important part of Mike's life.

Mike spent decades working for Terra International, building a career and friendships along the way. He was proud of his Iowa roots and had a special place in his heart for Sioux City, a place he truly loved.

Mike was a man of faith, strength, resilience, and determination. Even in his final days, he faced life's challenges with the independence and resolve that had always been part of who he was. He made the difficult decision to enter hospice care and passed on his own terms, just as he had always lived his life.

Mike was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Carol; his parents Dan & Eleanor (Shimon) O'Brien; brother Pat; and two of his sisters Kay Porter and Sue Rutherford. We find comfort in knowing they are reunited. He is survived by his sister Therese Bartosh McQuillan, his two sons, Ted O’Brien and his wife, Cindy, and Tom O’Brien and his wife, Sohila. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Elizabeth Smith and her husband, Mackenzie Smith; Collin O’Brien and his wife, Megan; and Aidan O’Brien. Mike was a proud great-grandfather to Zebadiah and Shepherd O'Brien.

Mike leaves behind a lifetime of memories and a family who will always be grateful for the time they shared with him. His strength, resilience, and determination are qualities that will continue to inspire those who knew and loved him.

He will be missed, remembered, and loved always.

Rest easy, Dad. We love you.

Celebration of Life:

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Mike's life on Sunday, November 15, 2026, from 4:00–7:00 PM at the Rock Creek Clubhouse in Ankeny, Iowa.

An open to public Burial will take place on Monday, November 16, 2026, at 11:00 AM at the Calvary Cemetery in Pocahontas, Iowa.