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Michael J. O'Leary
1939 - 2025
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Michael O'Leary Obituary
August 9, 1939 - November 1, 2025
Michael J. O'Leary, 86, passed away on November 1, 2025 at home with family. Mike was born on August 9, 1939 in Shamokin, Pennsylvania to the late James and Anna O'Leary.
He played right tackle for Shamokin High School in the 1950's on its formidable varsity football team. One of his proudest memories was beating the local powerhouse, Mount Carmel, in his senior year on Thanksgiving Day in the Coal Bucket Classic, 27-6.
Mike graduated from Bloomsburg University majoring in education and later earned a master's degree in secondary education from SUNY College at Cortland.
Mike and his wife, Carol, moved to the Auburn area in 1962 from the Pennsylvania Coal Region and made Owasco their home. His first and only teaching role was as a math teacher at Union Springs High School, retiring after 40 years in 2000.
After being strongly encouraged by a friend and neighbor, Mike decided to run for Owasco Town Supervisor in the 1970's. He won. He then won again thirteen more times, serving as supervisor for 28 years.
Mike was a dedicated runner and a very familiar site on Owasco Road. He was active in the Sacred Heart Men's Club for many years, working bingo nights and cooking for community events and banquets.
Almost one year after retiring from teaching, Mike suffered a major stroke. While this changed his life in substantial ways, it did not in any way diminish his spirit and perseverance.
Mike is survived by his three children, Michael of Syracuse, Kimberly (Mike Dalton) of Camillus and Bridget (Mark Connor) of Brooklyn, as well as two grandchildren, Mike of Syracuse and Alison (Keenan Dennis) of Charlotte, NC.
In addition to his parents, Mike was predeceased by Carol, his wife of 60 years, as well as his brother Tim and sister Roxanne.
His family is very grateful for the support of friends and especially his long-time caregivers, Vicky, Lucy, Gerri, and Adam. Calling hours will be at Farrell's Funeral Service, Inc located at 84 South Street, Auburn, NY on Friday, 7 November from 6 to 8:00 p.m. A funeral mass will be held to celebrate Mike's life on Saturday, 8 November at 11:00 a.m. at Sacred Heart Church followed by burial at St. Joseph's Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to consider supporting Mike's commitment to community by contributing to the Owasco Fire Department (owascofire.gov) or to the American Heart Association
Memories and Condolences
for Michael O'Leary
Sponsored by Farrell's Funeral Service, Inc. - Auburn.
19 Entries
Christopher Scanlon
November 8, 2025
THE best teacher I ever had in my life. I remember being a senior at Union Springs and Mr. O´Leary turned me on to a math programming language called Fortran. I then went on and got two degrees in Information Technology and worked professionally at it for 35 years before retiring early. This was all because of that one day. This man changed my life. Thank you Mr. O´Leary - God bless you - Rest in peace.
Melissa Davis
November 8, 2025
My condolences to Mr. O´Leary´s Family. He was one my favorite teachers.
Linda Rydzewski
November 7, 2025
Bridget, my deepest sympathy to you and the entire the O'Leary family. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Mary Muldoon
November 7, 2025
Mike was one of the best, better than all the rest deeply enjoyed our friendship at USCS and visiting him at home.
Bill Cornell
November 6, 2025
Mr. O'Leary was a significant influence in my becoming a teacher. I always remembered his comment that 'you never know when you will need math'. He was right as I entered my first career as a retail buyer where statistical analysis became a constant for me. USCS Class of '67
Cathy Iannone
November 6, 2025
We are very sorry for your loss.Mike & Carol were wonderful neighbors and have fond memories of them growing up in the neighborhood in Owasco. Our condolences to all their children. RIP? Vince & Cathy Iannone.
Janine Garropy
November 6, 2025
There were teachers throughout our lives that changed us, made us better. Mr. O´Leary was one of them.
He always smiled; and never stopped seeking ways to get each of us to understand and love math.
You made the world a better place, and I thank you.
Natalie "Piels" Reardon
November 6, 2025
My condolences to Mr. O´Leary´s family. Just looking at his smiling face makes me smile. What a wonderful inspiring teacher he was. He was loved by so many of his students. Rest in peace Mr. O´Leary.
Micky Gabak
November 6, 2025
Condolences to his family and friends. Great teacher who was always ready to give students extra help when needed. Micky Class of 74
Rebecca Large Ewing
November 6, 2025
He touched the lives of his students. Making an impression on us all. What a role model he was.
Karen A Schlegel
November 6, 2025
Wonderful teacher. USCS class of 82
Eleanor Wood
November 6, 2025
My deepest sympathies to his family, friends and caregivers. He was great as a teacher and an individual--patient, respectful and caring. I always remember him smiling as he stood in his classroom doorway. Rest peacefully Mr O'Leary.
Connie Patterson
November 6, 2025
Mr. O´Leary was an amazing teacher for me and then my 4 children. His smile and wit were legendary. He made such a difference in our lives. Condolences to his family.
Susan Dudek
November 5, 2025
So sorry to hear of his passing... Mr. O´Leary was a great teacher and wonderful person.
Sue Dudek
Mark A Bailey
November 5, 2025
My sincere condolences go out to the family
Karen H. Ianiri
November 5, 2025
I was a senior at Union Springs High School, when Mr. O´Leary became on staff....he was very good friends with Mr. Jim William´s (think they attended Bloomsbury College together) and Mr. John Kula....all three were a GREAT addition to our school....I remember his outgoing personality and big smile....my sincere sympathies to his family and friends Karen Hyland Ianiri
Larry Drown
November 5, 2025
Mr O'Leary was a fine man and great teacher.
My condolences to his family and friends.
Lona Perry
November 5, 2025
What a great teacher he was so sad he was such a nice person thoughts and prayers for family
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