With heavy hearts we announce the sudden passing of Michael Patrick O’Brien on Friday, August 24, 2018 at the age of 61. Born in Toronto, Ontario on February 15, 1957. Died in the loving arms of his wife and best friend of 36 years Debbie (Hodgson). Loving father of Niall (Lisa), Travis (Jessica) and Luke (Kaitlin) and dearest Papa of Avery, Blake and Emmy, who brought him so much joy. He was the blessed son of Luke and the late Mary O'Brien. Mike survived by his loving siblings Nano Drewitt (Chuck) of Sault Ste. Marie, Siobhan Gabura (Jeff) of Oakville, Mary-Jo Mulholland (Mark) of Sault Ste. Marie, Luke O’Brien (Maria) of Etobicoke, Fiona Swanek (Wayne) of Oakville and Tara Drover (Jeff) of Oakville. Loving son-in-law of Dora and late David Hodgson. Brother-in-law of Darlene Blunt (Doug), Steven Hodgson (Janice) and the late Larry Hodgson, all of Sault Ste. Marie. He was a cherished and loving Uncle to 21 nieces and nephews. Mike lived his life fully and passionately. He loved people and people loved him. He was a truly amazing individual with an uncanny ability to engage with everyone and because of that he built endearing friendships that will last forever. Through his sons he became involved in hockey and loved spending that special time with them at the rink. “Mr. O” continued to coach and manage hockey teams and influenced the lives of many young athletes in our community. He was an avid Maple Leafs fan and couldn't wait to watch the games with his boys. He also loved his summer home on Big Basswood Lake and will be missed by his wonderful friends and neighbours out there. His walking buddy Keon will be forever waiting for him to come home. He recently retired from OLG and was looking forward to the next chapter of his life with his loving family. He will be forever remembered by all who knew him. Friends and family are invited to visit at Northwood Funeral Home Cremation and Reception Centre (942 Great Northern Road, 705-945-7758) on Thursday, August 30, 2018 from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. A Funeral Mass will be held at St. Gerard Majella Church on Friday, August 31, 2018 at 11:00 a.m. with Father Alex Surianthadathil officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to ARCH or the Sault Area Hospital Foundation would be appreciated by the family. A special thank you to the medical staff at the Thessalon Hospital.
