Former West Haven Mayor Ed O’Brien Dies At 61, Mourned

WEST HAVEN, CT — Former West Haven Mayor Ed O'Brien has died after a battle with an "ultra-rare cancer." He was 61.

O'Brien, who served two terms as West Haven's mayor from 2013-17, shared in March that he had been diagnosed with epithelioid hemangioendothelioma (EHE).

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O'Brien said he was sharing his diagnosis to help spread awareness and raise research funding for EHE, which currently has no cure.

"We at the Democratic Town Committee are deeply saddened by the passing of former Mayor Ed O'Brien after his courageous battle with a rare form of cancer," the West Haven Democratic Town Committee wrote in a post on Facebook. "We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and all who knew and loved him during this difficult time.

"Mayor O'Brien's dedication to the City of West Haven and its residents, his love for his community and his commitment to public service will be remembered for years to come.

"On behalf of the entire Democratic Town Committee, we thank Mayor O'Brien for his years of service and the passion he brought to our city.

"Rest in peace, Mayor O'Brien. You will always be a #Westie."

West Haven Republican Town Committee Chairman Jeff Christman wrote in a post on Facebook that the committee "extends our thoughts, prayers, and heartfelt condolences to the O'Brien family on the passing of Ed O'Brien."

"My personal experience with Ed was always positive," Christman wrote. "He was quick to say hello, carried a consistently warm and upbeat attitude, and had a smile that made every interaction feel genuine. I truly believe he was a good man.

"He will be greatly missed by his friends, his family, and his current and former colleagues."

See also: Former West Haven Mayor Diagnosed With 'Ultra-Rare Cancer'