Obituary of Michael J. O'Hara

O’HARA – Michael J., 77, of Ebensburg, passed away peacefully May 24, 2024, surrounded by his loving family.  Born December 11, 1946, son of the late Robert and Dessie (Griffin) O’Hara.  Preceded in death by  brother, Bobby; sisters-in-law Debbie (Dave) O’Hara, Verna (Bill) Wright;  brothers-in-law Pat Grubb; Merrill, Jack, Jim, Chuck and Earl Fogle. 

Survived by wife, the former Janet Fogle, to whom he was married 55 years, and children:  Michael J. O’Hara, Jr;  Jennifer Lee (George) Watson; and Vincent Robert O’Hara, all of Ebensburg;  grandchildren: Samantha O’Hara, Jacqueline Watson, and Eden (Patrick) McIntosh; as well as great-grandchildren:  Alice, Lily, Leland, Evelyn and Maeve.  Also survived by brothers and sisters: Jim (Sara) O’Hara, Kathy (Dan) Kelly, Dave O’Hara, Tom (Sharon) O’Hara, Carl O’Hara, Marty Grubb, and Shirley (Jeff) Hunt. 

Mike was a lifelong industrial and house painter and the owner of Mike’s Painting, Ebensburg.  With over 50 years of experience, he had started as an apprentice for the former Dick Pryce Painting.   A lifelong member of Holy Name Roman Catholic Church, he was on the committee to replace the cross on the church steeple and coordinated the work for its completion.  A devote catholic, he was the recipient of the Prince Gallitzin Cross Award in 2006.  He will also be long remembered for his love of Bluegrass Music, his simple style and for the wooden “comfort crosses” he would hand make and distribute to friends and those in need.

Friends will be received from 2:00 to 6:00 p.m. Wednesday at the Askew-Houser Funeral Homes, Inc., Ebensburg.  A Funeral Mass will be held at 10:00 a.m., Thursday at Holy Name Church, the Rev. Fr. Brian Warchola, celebrant.  Interment at Holy Name Cemetery.  Condolences to the family may be left at www. askew-houser.com