Martin Timothy O’Brien

April 13, 1953 - September 13, 2026

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 nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life for Marty will be on 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: https://givebutter.com/in-memory-of-marty.

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

Soller-Baker Funeral Homes, Inc.

Joyce Linback

Sharon Beddow

Tammy Osburn

The Heslin family

Bernadette DeCallies

Travis

Kate Fields

Light a candle

See Condolences

My prayers are with the whole family. I'm grateful to have known Marty.

Dear Kathy and family, my sincere condolences on the passing of your husband and father, Marty. I remember him fondly as a very gregarious personality. You couldn’t help but smile and feel content went around him and you, Kathy. I know exactly what you’re going through and wish you much strength and hope the memories will give you much comfort, love from all the Kendrick’s

Kathy (and family), I send my deepest sympathies from Wisconsin. We won't be back in time for the memorial service. Wish I could be there to give you a big hug. I will be in touch when we get back. Love you my dear friend.

So sorry for your loss. My thoughts & prayers are with you and your family. I remember him from the bowling alley days and when I was married Aubry was the flower girl in my wedding many years ago.

In memory of Martin Timothy O’Brien, Joyce Linback lit a candle

Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.

In memory of Martin Timothy O’Brien, Sharon Beddow lit a candle

Family was so important to Marty and that includes our family. So many memories of birthdays, holidays, and events where grandchildren were singing, dancing, playing sports, acting…he was there. A kind person who was a helper and supporter and will be so, so missed. Sending love to the O’Brien family From the Williamsons

Kathy I was sorry to see OB’s obituary. I worked with him at Purdue and we all called him by his first two initials of his last name. So sorry for your loss and condolences to you and the family.

Kathy, my deepest condolences to you and your family.

Kathy, I’m just so incredibly sorry. My heart hurts for you. I’ve been thinking about you and praying for you and your family so much. Sending you all my love.

We so incredibly sorry for your loss. Please know that we are thinking of you and your family and keeping you close in our hearts during this incredibly difficult time. We hope you find comfort in all of the wonderful memories and love you shared with him. Sending you so much love, strength, and prayers in the days ahead.

We loved Marty!! We cannot believe that he is gone. Our hearts are with his wife Miss Kathy and the rest of their family. He will be truly missed!!

RIP🤍🕊️🙏

Sorry for your loss. Prayers for you and your family.

In memory of Martin Timothy O’Brien, Kate Fields lit a candle

Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.