Founder / Owner
Daniel J. O’Brien co-founded O’Brien Brothers along with his older brother, Leo Jr., overseeing its operations as leadership and later as a board member until his passing in 2020. Together over the course of six decades, the O’Brien brothers successfully implemented their vision of a family-oriented business committed to their community and the state of Vermont. Their work resulted in developing properties that helped small-and medium-sized businesses thrive and created residential properties for all demographics.
Dan was the second son born to Leo O’Brien Sr. and Mabel Hayes O’Brien, following his older brother, best friend, lifelong neighbor, and business partner, Leo O’Brien Jr. and his sister, Rita O’Brien. Born in South Burlington to a farming and cattle-dealing family, he grew up on the family farm on Patchen Road, in what is now known as Jaycee Park. Dan was a successful businessman, leader, political strategist, volunteer, and family man.
Dan and Leo followed in their father’s footsteps in agriculture, forming O’Brien Brothers in 1958 primarily as a farming and cattle business. As Chittenden County changed with the times, Dan and Leo transitioned the business to real estate and property management in order to share their love and stewardship of the land and to fill areas of need that they identified in the community. Dan’s business acumen, fairness, and trustworthiness helped propel the success of O’Brien Brothers to what it is today.
In his understated way, Dan left a significant impact on South Burlington and Chittenden County through his tireless efforts and actions—first in agriculture, then later in politics. He believed in the power of government to improve lives while believing fiercely in the entrepreneurialism, resourcefulness, and work ethic of Vermonters. He served as chair of the South Burlington and Vermont State Democratic Committees, as well as serving on the Democratic National Committee, in addition to many other civil and nonprofit boards and committees. In 2018, Dan — along with Leo — was named Vermont Citizens of the Year by the Vermont Chamber of Commerce.
Dan’s biggest accomplishment was his family. Together with his wife Sandra, he raised five children at their home on Old Farm Road in South Burlington. Later in life, he enjoyed spending time on Lake Champlain with his eight grandchildren at their property in Grand Isle, Vermont.
