Ryan M. O’Hara

Feb. 14, 2007--University of Delaware junior Ryan M. O'Hara, 20, of Washington Township, N.J., died Feb. 12, in a fatal car accident in Newark.

A history education major, with a minor in German, Mr. O'Hara also took music classes and was active in the University's Marching and Symphonic bands. He served as a resident assistant for two years.

Barry Joyce, associate professor of history and Mr. O'Hara's adviser in the History Education Program, said, "Ryan was an excellent student who was truly excited about becoming a high school teacher."

Iris Busch, assistant professor of foreign languages and literatures, said Mr. O'Hara "faithfully attended every German Club activity during the past three years and had become a member of Delta Phi Alpha [the German honorary society] in May of 2006. His smile and spirit were contagious. Ryan will be missed."

Heidi Sarver, director of the University of Delaware Marching Band, recalled Mr. O'Hara's smile. "That never-ending smile," she said. "It stretched from one end of the field to the other and could be seen from the top of the stadium press box. And, it was always there." To read Sarver's tribute to Mr. O'Hara, click here.

Daniel Callahan, professor of history, called Mr. O'Hara "one of the finest human beings I have met in my nearly 40 years at the University of Delaware" and said, "He was not only highly intelligent but had a wonderful sense of humor, always so upbeat."

A 2004 graduate of Washington Township High School, he was a member of its Minutemen Marching Band. According to his family, he loved reading, traveling and music.

He is survived by his parents, Terrence J. and Barbara O'Hara; brothers Brandon and Justin O'Hara; grandmother Ethel O'Hara; and aunts, uncles, cousins and many friends.

Viewing will be held from 6-9 p.m., Friday, Feb. 16, and from 9-10 a.m., Saturday, Feb. 17, at St. Charles Borromeo RC Church, 176 Stage Coach Rd., Sicklerville, N.J. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m., Feb. 20, followed by interment at Hillcrest Memorial Park, Washington Township.

Donations in Mr. O'Hara's memory may be made to the University of Delaware Marching Band, Development Office, George Evans House, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19716. Click here to share condolences with the family online.