MOLINE, Ill. — Moline 6th Ward Alderman Pat O'Brien has passed away, according to a Monday press release from Mayor Sangeetha Rayapati.
According to the city's website, O'Brien was elected to the city council on Apr. 6, 2021. A graduate of Western Illinois University, O'Brien previously served eight years as alderman of Moline's 2nd Ward until 2005. He also previously served as a Rock Island County Board member from District 10, which previously included a large portion of Moline.
In the release, Rayapati said:
It is with deep shock and sadness that we wish to inform the Moline community of the passing of Alderperson Pat O'Brien.
Pat was a fierce community advocate, lifting up the causes he cared so much about, such as addressing poverty, environmental issues, and workers' rights not only in word, but also in deed. His multiple terms of service as alderperson as well as his time as a county board member are a testament to his commitment to these ideals and his commitment to each of us.
His life of public service will be a lasting reminder to all of us how to care for out neighbors and our community. We were privileged to know and work alongside him.
Mayor Rayapati also spoke with News 8 about Alderman O'Brien's lasting Legacy.
"He was an amazing advocate for his ward, he did a great job of holding neighborhood or ward meetings, keeping people informed," Mayor Rayapati said. "He knocked doors incessantly, and he just was really good at connecting with other people and knowing what their needs were and what their wants were."
"Pat was serving on an Environmental Working Group we had formed early on," she added. "He really took up that cause and worked with myself and staff to talk through some ideas and some initiatives that we could explore to improve sustainability in Moline."
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