O’Brien, Marcel Joseph (“Tarzan”).
Peacefully, in his 94th year, at
The Elliott Community on Dec. 2. Predeceased by his parents Tom and Aurize
O’Brien, siblings Madeleine (Joe), Colleen (Ken) and Jack (Irma). Survived by his
sister Mary (Bill, deceased) of Arizona, and many nephews, nieces, great nephews and
great nieces. Marcel was an active world traveller and sportsman (tennis, skiing,
golf and hockey) and a regular presence during summers at Southampton and Port
Elgin. He was a friendly “character” at arenas, ball parks and pubs in Guelph for
several decades and, in later years, at the food court in Stone Road Mall sharing
coffee and banter with a regular group of cronies. Marcel will be remembered by
several generations of Guelph residents as his clown persona in Christmas parades
and other public events through the years, including visits by the Flying Fathers
hockey troupe. “Everyone knows Tarz” is a common refrain. As a longtime parishioner
at Basilica of Our Lady Immaculate, Marcel was a member of the choir and an usher
and was active with the Knights of Columbus. He was a man of small stature, but
great faith, and his deep spiritual connection was a constant throughout his long
life and a great comfort in his final years. His family wishes to thank the staff at
Chartwell Wellington Park Retirement Residence and the Elliott Community and Pastor
Mike Dell for the care and love shown Marcel during his final years. Marcel was the
subject of a front-page feature story and video tribute in The Guelph Mercury
highlighting his good-natured celebrity status as a beloved Guelph icon when he
celebrated his 85th birthday. It is a fitting acknowledgement of the exceptional
life of a special man who brought joy to all who met him. It can be viewed at:
www.guelphmercury.com/news-story/2748823-tarzan-the-clown-turns-85/
www.guelphmercury.com/video/2873007/
There will be a celebration of Marcel’s life at The Elliott Community, 170 Metcalfe St, Guelph, ON at 1 p.m. on Jan. 11, 2020. Donations in Marcel’s name can be directed to The Elliott Community. Donation cards are available at the Gilbert MacIntyre & Son Funeral Home, Dublin Chapel, 252 Dublin St N., Guelph, 519-822-4731 or online at www.gilbertmacintyreandson.com
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Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Marcel Tarzan O’Brian Sunday December 1st 2019..
Death notice for the town of: Guelph, Province: Ontario