I regret to inform you that Kevin O’Brien, a retired professor in the Criminal Justice Department and a World War II veteran, passed away on May 24 at the age of 86.
Throughout his 20-year distinguished career at MCC, Mr. O’Brien was devoted to sharing his expertise with students and the community and advancing the college’s image.
Prior to coming to MCC, he served 20 years with the New York City Police Department and was qualified by the courts as an expert witness in various aspects of scientific crime detection. He retired from law enforcement as a detective in the police department’s crime laboratory.
Mr. O’Brien began working at MCC in 1967 as an assistant professor teaching forensic science. His previous teaching experience consisted of being a lecturer and instructor at the NYC Police Academy, Baruch School of the City College of New York, Seton Hall University, Manhattan College, Brooklyn College and Mt. Saint Vincent’s College. At MCC, he quickly established himself as a respected professional with a national reputation. Mr. O’Brien was author and co-author of several published articles, monographs and a book on forensic science, titled “Criminalistics: Theory and Practice,” which received wide adoption as a textbook in colleges and universities across the country. In 1973-74, he was listed in “Men of Distinction” and “2000 Men of Distinction” of “Dictionary of International Biography.”
In addition, Mr. O’Brien was involved in educating youths about law enforcement work. His roles outside the classroom included serving as consultant to the Rochester Police Department Bomb Squad and the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office. On campus, he held leadership roles in college activities, including MCC United Way captain and chairman of the Tenure and Promotion Committee for the Criminal Justice Department.
Mr. O’Brien was promoted to professor in 1974 and retired from MCC in 1987. He was awarded the title of professor emeritus in 1987 for his distinguished service.
Throughout his life, Mr. O’Brien was passionate about giving back to the community and his country. From 1942-45, he served in the U.S. Army Air Corps and Air Force as an aerial gunner in night bombardment and dispatcher involved in dropping spies, agents and equipment into occupied France and Germany.
Mr. O’Brien is survived by daughters Kathleen and Eileen; son Rory; brothers Joseph, John and James; four grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by his wife, Kathleen, and sons Kevin Jr. and Stephen.
A memorial service was held May 28 at Guardian Angels R.C. Church in Henrietta, followed by interment at Mendon Cemetery.
Anne M. Kress
President
08/28/2009 |