Michael Patrick O’Reilly III

February 9, 1978-August 12, 2026

Michael Patrick O’Reilly III, age 48, of Merrillville, IN passed away on Wednesday, August 12, 2026. He was born on February 9, 1978, in Hammond, IN the son of Linda King and Michael Patrick O’Reilly II.

Michael proudly served his county in the United States Army and was honorably discharged. His dedication to serving others continued long after his military service, as he spent much of his free time helping fellow veterans and supporting veteran programs. Serving others was simply part of who Michael was. He has an incredibly big heart and was always willing to help someone in need-even when he had absolutely no idea what he was doing, he was going to try anyway. Anyone who knew Michael knew that he could make people laugh. He was funny, caring, strong-willed, and without question, stubborn. When Michael believed in something or knew what he wanted, he stood his ground. Underneath that stubbornness, however, was a man with an enormous heart who cared deeply for people around him. Above everything else, Michael loved his family. His children and grandchildren held a special place in his heart, and the love he had for them was immeasurable.

Michael leaves behind his five Children, Taylor (Kendra) O’Reilly, William (Alyssa) O’Rielly, Alexis O’Reilly, Jay O’Reilly, and Christopher O’Reilly; and his beloved grandchildren, Jonathan O’Reilly, Scarlett O’Reilly, Jackson O’Reilly, Carter-Roy Gallinger, Paizley-May Gallinger and Karsyn-Alan Morrow. He is also survived by his father, Michael Patrick O’Reilly II, his partner Stacey Ojeda; and countless family members, friends, fellow veteran, and others whose lives he touched along the way. He was preceded in death by his mother, Linda King.

Michael found happiness in the things and people he loved. He had a special appreciation for eagles and lighthouses, loved his dog, and had a deep love for music. He also loved to cook-especially his chicken and dumplings, although making a small batch was apparently never an option. If Michael was making chicken and dumplings, there was going to be enough to feed an army. Those who loved Michael will remember his humor, his stubborn determination, his willingness to lend a hand, and , most importantly, his big heart. He cared deeply about his family, his friends, his fellow veterans, and the people around him. He wanted people to laugh, he wanted to help, and he loved his family more than words could ever fully express. Michael will be deeply missed, but the laughter he created, the people he helped, the veterans he supported, and the love he gave his family and friends will continue to carry his memory forward.

Cremation services were entrusted to Bocken Funeral Home, 7042 Kennedy Avenue, Hammond, IN 46323. A Celebration of Life honoring Michael will be held on Friday, September 4, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at: 4203 Montdale Park Drive, Valparaiso, IN 46383. Family and friends are invited to gather together to remember Michael, share memories and stories, and celebrate the life of a man whose, generosity, and big heart touched so many.