Robert O'Brien

Robert John O’Brien, 76, of Carmel, Indiana, passed away peacefully in his home on September 5, 2026. He was born May 29, 1950, in Evanston, Illinois, to Francis and Barbara (Greene) O’Brien.

Bob enjoyed a long and successful career in sales and private equity, guided by a strong work ethic, keen business instincts, and a deep sense of responsibility to others. For 25 years, he also owned and operated Cielo Ranch, a boarding stable in Westfield, Indiana. During his years at Cielo, Bob developed a deep appreciation for horses and often spoke of what magnificent creatures they are.

Above all, Bob was devoted to his family. One of eight children, he loved his siblings and their families dearly and cherished the occasions that brought them together. He was a proud father and an exceptional grandfather, affectionately known to his seven grandchildren as “Grandpa O.” He was especially proud of the family his daughter, Ellen, and her husband, Matt, built together.

Bob loved classic cars, motorcycles, any and all live music, bonfires, sunshine, and being on the water. He believed in working hard and enjoying life just as fully. Whether going out on a Friday night or watching the sun set after a long Saturday of work at the farm, Bob knew how to make the most of both. He will be remembered most for the steadfast way he cared for the people he loved—and for being someone they could always count on.

Bob is survived by his daughter, Ellen Casolaro, and her husband, Matt, of Zionsville, Indiana; his seven grandchildren, Lauren, Grace, Patrick, Elizabeth, John, Teddy, and Beau, as well as Jack, their beloved black Lab, whom Bob adored; his brothers, Dennis O’Brien (Mary), Terry O’Brien (Missy), John O’Brien (Kim), and Patrick O’Brien (Renee); his sisters, Margaret Joyce (Pat) and Barbara Browning; and his sister-in-law, Karen O’Brien, wife of his late brother, Frank. He is also survived by many cherished nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Francis and Barbara (Greene) O’Brien; his brother, Frank O’Brien; and his sister-in-law, Michelle O’Brien.

Visitation will be held Monday, September 14, 2026, from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. at Flanner Buchanan — Carmel, 325 E. Carmel Drive, Carmel, Indiana.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated Tuesday, September 15, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic Church — 10655 Haverstick Road, Carmel, Indiana. Burial will immediately follow at Our Lady of Peace Catholic Cemetery.

An open house reception will follow from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. at 3UP Rooftop Lounge — 201 W. Main Street, Carmel, Indiana. All are welcome.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Bob’s honor to the Alzheimer's Association in support of continued research toward ending Alzheimer’s disease.