Gina O'Hara (Miller)

Many characteristics make up the lives of many great people, but those derived from the heart are the qualities that leave a forever imprint on the hearts of others, and Gina O'Hara was indeed such a woman. Resourceful and creative, she was an ambitious, hard worker who placed the needs of others before her own. Equally as loving, she was a joy to be around as she enlightened those in her company with her unending energy, compassionate ways, and zest for life. A special woman in the hearts of those she leaves behind, Gina will be deeply missed.

The "Nifty Fifties" was certainly a time to be remembered. New cars came equipped with bigger, more powerful engines while larger and taller automobile tail fins were all the rage. Rock and roll was here to stay with the television debut of American Bandstand, and at the same time, the "Baby Boomer" generation had reached its' peak. The birth of Regina Lynn O'Hara made for exciting times in 1957 when her parents, Edward and Elizabeth (Martin) O'Hara welcomed her into their arms on July 8.

The youngest of four, Gina grew up alongside her older siblings, Michael, Kathy, and Mary in Battle Creek, Michigan where Gina was born and raised. Her father worked in sales for a roofing and siding company while her mother, a homemaker, also worked outside the home as a secretary.

Gina learned to survive the perils of growing up with an older brother and two sisters, but being the youngest had benefits, too. As a child she experienced playful adventures with neighborhood friends and attended St. Joseph Catholic Schools where she was a friend to many. Gina graduated from Lakeview High School in 1975 and went on to further her education, graduating from Western Michigan University with a degree in psychology.

While working as a waitress, Gina's life turned in a new and exciting direction when she met Leon Miller. They dated for several years, and although Leon was six years older than Gina, they shared the same birthday. They also shared a fondness for sailing and fishing, which they often did together. Deeply in love, Gina and Leon were happily married in 1984 at First United Methodist in Kalamazoo, Michigan.

Gina began working with her husband at his insurance business. Later, after acquiring a job at the post office, she served as a postal clerk and sorted mail, among a variety of jobs she performed throughout her years there. Gina truly enjoyed her job with the post office and was a dedicated employee. One of the best things she loved about her work was leaving at the end of the day without a worry.

Although Gina's job meant much to her, nothing compared to her devotion and dedication as a mother. In 1994 she was blessed with the birth of her son, Jacob, and in 1999, twins Hannah and Jared came along. She had her hands full, yet Gina always found a way to keep her household running smoothly. She supported her children in each of their endeavors, including Hannah's soccer, and the boys involvement in scouting. Family traditions were very important to Gina. As a child her family began vacationing in Traverse City for the better part of a week each year, and this special time together has come to include three generations.

With ways all her own, Gina had a talent for decorating and made a good home for Leon and the kids. She had an eye for detail, and the way she coordinated colors and used accents made her home warm, comfortable and inviting. Christmas time was a special time when her resourceful nature shined as she loved decorating for the holiday. Gina used her knack for color and creativity on the outside of her house, as well. She loved gardening, and had beautiful flower gardens all around her home with massive arrays of blooms. It wasn't uncommon for Gina to be outside working in her gardens from sun-up to sun-down. She found it quite therapeutic, and it brought much joy to her heart. Gina was hoping to do some gardening this year, and was looking forward to it.

Whenever she could, Gina tried eating and living a healthy lifestyle. She enjoyed hiking, especially at some of her favorite places such as the Smokey Mountains, the Grand Canyon, and Alaska. Gina also had a love for travel. She absolutely loved going to popular destinations in Italy and Florida where she most often traveled.

So full of life, Gina had enough stamina for everyone. She lived life to the fullest, and counted each day as a blessing. With an abundance of energy, Gina was passionate about everything she set her mind to. She could prove to be a little strong willed at times, but it was only one of the many reasons why Gina was so well loved. It was a joy to be in her company as she shared her zest for life, compassionate heart and warm personality with those around her.

In 2012, Gina retired from the post office after being diagnosed with cancer. It was no less a trying time, but her strong will and determined nature allowed her to make the most of each day. Courageous under the circumstances, she was an example to all with her can-do attitude and bravery. Even still, Gina was selfless. She continually put the needs of others before her own, and lived fully and completely to the very end.

Gina O’Hara, age 56, of Mattawan, died on Sunday, March 30, 2014 at her home. Learn more about Gina, view her Life Story film, and visit with her family and friends on Thursday, April 3, 2014 from 5-8 pm at the Life Story Funeral Home-Betzler, 6080 Stadium Drive, Kalamazoo (375-2900), where services will be at 11:00 am on Friday.

Members of Gina's family include her husband, Leon Miller; her children: Jacob, Hannah and Jared Miller; her mother, Elizabeth O’Hara; brother, Michael O’Hara; two sisters, Kathy (Dave) Vaughn, Mary (Jimmie) Good; several nieces and nephews, and very close cousin, Darlene O’Hara. She was preceded in death by her father, Edward O’Hara in 1989.

Please visit Gina’s personal memory page at www.lifestorynet.com where you can archive a favorite memory or photo and sign her guestbook before coming to the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice Care of Southwest Michigan or The Breast Cancer Research Foundation.