Michael O'Sheel, 66, died Sunday, October 11, 2009 in Brunswick, Maryland. Born in Fairmont, West Virginia on August 14, 1943, Michael was the son of the late Virginia Burt O'Sheel and Patrick O'Sheel of Chevy Chase, Maryland; he was the grandson of the late poet and noted writer of lyrical verse, Shaemus O'Sheel. He is survived by his wife, Clare McMahon O'Sheel of Tryon, NC and Waukesha, WI, his daughter, Margaret Rose O'Sheel (Peggy) of Greensboro, NC, his sister, Margaret Ellen O'Sheel (Peggy) of Twickenham, England, two stepdaughters, Jennifer and Catherine, and three grandchildren.

An avid reader and poet, Michael's energetic spirit, love of adventure, and zest for living were a joy to his family. His most powerful love of family and friends, the natural world, good food (especially barbecue), Charles Dickens and Leonard Cohen, Gary Cooper and John Wayne, made him a force in the lives of all who knew him. Never leaving a promise unfulfilled, Michael was a devoted husband and father, and will be deeply and forever missed.r.