Michael James "Mike" O'Grady

Michael James "Mike" O'Grady, 83, passed away peacefully in Huntington Beach, California, on August 24, 2025.

Born on September 25, 1941, in Chicago, Illinois, Mike was the youngest of eight children born to Irish immigrants Austin Joseph and Bea O'Grady. He was the beloved brother of Mary, John, Kathleen, Patrick, Josephine, Joseph, and Bernie (who have all preceded him in death).

Mike's early years were deeply rooted in faith. He studied in the seminary, graduating from St. Vincent De Paul in 1959. He also earned Master's Degrees in English and Theology from DePaul University and St. Mary's in Perryville. He went on to become a Catholic priest. In 1970, he met Jane, a nun. Their friendship blossomed into love, and together they made the brave decision to leave their religious vocations. They married, built a home grounded in faith, love, and family, and raised two children. They have been married for over 54 years.

Michael built a diverse career selling insurance, tending bar, and ultimately serving with the County of Orange Health Care Agency. There, he supervised residential treatment programs in the mental health and drug abuse field. He dedicated himself to drug and alcohol support programs, helping individuals with dual diagnoses and those in residential treatment. His work reflected the values he lived by: compassion, humility, and service.

Mike is survived by his devoted wife, Mary Jane O'Grady; his son, Ray O'Grady (Alisha); his daughter, Erin Sulkin (Mickey); his grandchildren, Grady and Riley Sulkin; and his step-grandchildren Zoe and Austin Soukup.

A proud Irishman, Mike maintained strong ties with his extended family in Ireland, regularly connecting with his cousins and celebrating his heritage. Known for his unwavering optimism, gentle humor, and ability to build meaningful relationships, Mike lived by simple spiritual principles: self-reflection, service to others, and forgiveness. He will be remembered for his deep love of family, his kindness, and his enduring belief in the good in people.

The family wishes to extend heartfelt gratitude to Hoag Hospice staff and the caregivers at Ivy Park, who loved and cared for Mike as if he were their own family.

Please come honor him the way he would want - with joy, love, and gratitude for all the memories he gave us.

Viewing

Friday, August 29, 2025

4:00 – 8:00 PM

Heritage Dilday, 17911 Beach Blvd, Huntington Beach, CA 92647

Funeral Mass

Saturday, August 30, 2025

10:00 AM

Sisters of St. Joseph of Orange – Sacred Heart Chapel

440 S. Batavia Street, Orange, CA 92868