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DOWNTOWN YMCA • PROGRAMS • SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY • MY Y STORY
HAROLD
My Y Story


Harold O'Brien

Honoring a Beloved Member



Harold O’Brien, known as “Santa Claus” to many members because of his remarkable jolly spirit, left a huge impact on our facility and will forever be remembered. Harold passed away at the age of 71 on January 17, 2011 in San Diego. He is survived by his wife Rita, two daughters Stacey Iannessa (Son-in-Law John) and Erin Garcia (Son-in-Law David) and four grandchildren, Alex and Alyssa Garcia and James and Ziggy Iannessa.

Harold was a member that exemplified the YMCA’s four core values of Caring, Respect, Responsibility and Honesty. He was especially known for his caring heart.

Harold's work involved building houses. Not only did Harold help those benefiting from a new home, he helped the people that he worked with. Harold's building team included people from all walks of life, like those recovering from drug addiction.

It didn't matter to Harold what you looked like, or if you were a wall-flower; he loved your heart. Harold's philanthropic lifestyle just goes to show the kind of man that Harold was.

He showed his caring attitude on the Downtown YMCA Basketball court.

Harold had been a member of the Downtown YMCA since 1994 and loved to play and talk basketball. His love for basketball began when his father installed a basketball court at his home when he was just eight years old. Soon after he installed the court, he would play basketball for hours with his sister. At 71 years old, he was known on the court for his 15-foot “bank shot.” If Harold was open that shot was made. All the players would say that Harold was the ultimate team player, always looking to help out his team members, and a joy to have on and off of the court. He wasn’t as concerned about getting the most points, it was about helping his team.

“Harold was well liked and respected by all of the lunch-time basketball group. He showed up every day with a smile on his face and continued to laugh and have fun throughout the game. During breaks, he was quick to share a story or two about life and his family who he loved dearly. He was also a great listener and gave you his undivided attention when you spoke. Harold is one of those guys that you will remember for the rest of your life,” James Peterson on remembering Harold.

Harold always took the time out of his day to say hello and talk with the Downtown Staff. We remember Harold for the smile he always had on his face and his wise words that he shared. You were always laughing and having a good time when talking with Harold.

A memorial service was held for Harold on January 31st here in San Diego where friends and family gathered to remember the extraordinary man that Harold was. His son-in-law remarked that he is “now in the courts of heaven”. We at the Downtown Y will never forget Harold’s warm spirit and loving smile, he will be greatly missed by all.

April 4, 1939-January 17, 2011

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