Patrick J. O'Hara

Patrick Joseph O’Hara died Tuesday, Jan. 29 in his home surrounded by mementos of his 91 years of a well-lived life. Most-noticeable were the paintings. After a 40-year career as a Chicago ad man (some credits: “Speedy” Alka-Seltzer, “I wish I was an Oscar Mayer wiener”), Patrick finished his degree from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago and created hundreds of paintings — nearby woodlands, skyscrapers, travel scenes — all imbued with his humor and eye for light and detail.

Born on January 13, 1928 on the Northside of Chicago, Patrick, married Mary Ann (nee Mutter) in 1953. The most-obvious proof of their 65 years of happy marriage: Karen (Ken Turek), Gary (Janet), Christine (Jack Leppert), Patricia (Tom Maxson), Kathleen (Martin Huggins), John (Ann), and Lisa (Greg Burke) — and, Grandchildren, Kelly, Keith, Dylan, Harry, Alexandria, Cody, Rosemary, Henry, Marguerite, Jessica, Mackenzie, Jackson, and Erin, each of whom were spoiled by Patrick’s postcards and love.

His grandchildren, children, in-laws, friends, and colleagues can attest to the other thing that surrounded Patrick in life and that he left behind for all of us in death: a brilliant spirit of kindness, patience, silliness, charity, dedication, and unflappability. Most important, he taught those around him to love and appreciate life in all its forms.

Funeral from Simkins Funeral Home 6251 Dempster St. Morton Grove, IL 60053 Saturday, February 2nd at 9:30 a.m. to St. Martha Church 8523 Georgiana Ave. Morton Grove, IL 6005. Mass at 10:00 a.m. Interment All Saints Cemetery. Visitation Friday, February 1st from 4:00 p.m.. to 9:00 p.m. Funeral Information: (847) 965-2500 In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Martha Church, 8523 Georgiana Ave., Morton Grove, IL or Misericordia 6300 N Ridge Ave, Chicago, IL 60660.

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