Michael J. “Mike” O’Leary, age 61, a lifelong resident of Worcester, passed away peacefully on Sunday, November 3, 2013 from complications due to pancreatic cancer.

     Born on August 5, 1952 to his beloved and predeceased parents Jeremiah and Mary (O’Shea) O’Leary. Jerry and Mary emigrated from Ballaugh and Killarney, County Kerry, Ireland and immigrated to Worcester in 1949.

     Cherished brother of Marie McGovern of West Springfield, and Donna O’Leary-Abkowitz and her husband Miles Abkowitz of Burlington. Proud and loving uncle of John Gerald McGovern, Christine Marie McGovern, and Sarah Victoria Abkowitz. Proud and loving great uncle of Felicia Marie Nitch and Ryan Francis Shultz; and John Jeremiah, Zackary Michael, and Dakota Jacob McGovern. Also survived by many loving aunts, uncles, and cousins in the United States, Ireland, England, and Australia. Devoted companion to Sue Noviello of Worcester.

     Warm, kind, and cheerful friend to many. Mike held various levels of responsibility at the former Norton Company.

     He enjoyed playing guitar, listening to rock music, and writing lyrics and poetry. He also enjoyed photography and cooking; but most of all cherished spending time and laughing with family and friends. He will always be remembered for his gift of humor and memory, courage, kindness, and independent spirit.

     Visiting hours will be held at the Athy Memorial Home, 111 Lancaster Street, Worcester, on Friday, November 8 from 10 to 11:30 a.m. The Mass of Christian Burial will follow at Noon at St. Peter’s Church, 931 Main Street, Worcester. Burial in Worcester County Memorial Park, Paxton. Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend.

     In lieu of flowers and to honor Mike’s memory, a donation to his charity of choice – the New England Shelter for Homeless Veterans, 17 Court Street, Boston, MA, 02108 would be sincerely appreciated. May his memory be for a blessing.