VHS Pioneer Richard F. O'Brion Dies

Richard F. O'Brion, 89, of Wyckoff, N.J., died on Wednesday, July 8, 2009. Industry veterans affectionately knew him as "The Pope." He retired as an Executive Vice President for JVC Corporation of America, in charge of the company's entire U.S. operations, and was one of the key individuals in introducing the VHS format. He was also identified with the early days of Sony's broadcast and professional business. Dick also worked for Ampex and Allan Dumont Laboratories during his career.

Born in Milton, Mass., Dick lived in Wyckoff for 38 years. He was a WWII Navy veteran and earned the Silver Star, one of the military's highest decorations, for gallantry in action. Surviving are his daughters, Candace Ahto and her husband Charles of Florham Park, Robyn O'Brion of Garfield, and Kimberly O'Brion and her husband Charles Esty of Albuquerque, N.M. He was predeceased by his wife Barbara (nee Frank) O'Brion in 2004.

Dick was buried on July 11 at the Wyckoff Reformed Church Cemetery.