Orville Sidney O'Hern

Lieutenant Commander Orville Sidney O’Hern, USN (Ret.), a dedicated husband, father, grandfather, and brother, died on November 2, 2025, at the age of 72, in Ellicott City, Maryland after a long illness.

Orv was born on July 27, 1953, in Tacoma, Washington. He graduated from Bellarmine Preparatory School in 1971 and enlisted in the United States Navy in 1974. He returned to Washington where he earned his bachelor’s degree in political science at Washington State University in 1980; and then completed one year of law school prior to returning to the Navy. He was commissioned as an officer in July of 1982 in Newport, Rhode Island, where he met Joanne, his wife of 42 years.

Orv’s Naval career took him around the world, and his time in the military remained one of his proudest accomplishments. He served with devotion and honor in a number of cryptologic assignments in California, Texas, Japan, District of Columbia, Maryland, Hawaii, Virginia, and onboard USS California, as well as onboard submarines in the Pacific Ocean. His patriotism and commitment to service were cornerstones of his life, and he carried these values with him long after his retirement in 1999.

After retiring from the Navy, Orv was a devoted stay-at-home parent. He was a lifelong Seattle sports fan, and especially enjoyed rooting for the Mariners. He also enjoyed playing golf, riding his motorcycle, and traveling.

Even more than his military service, Orv was proud of his family. He is survived by his wife Joanne; daughters Katie O’Hern (Ben) Hamilton and Megan (Rob) O’Hern-Crook; grandchildren Howard, Wilbur, and Louisa, with two more grandchildren expected in 2026; brother Jim (Marge) O’Hern; and sister Rosie (Rich) Kallal. He is preceded in death by his parents Jim and Rosemary, and brothers Mike and John.

Memorial services will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, November 29, 2025, at Bethany United Methodist Church, 2875 Bethany Lane in Ellicott City. Please join the family for a luncheon immediately following the services at the church.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Gilchrist Center Howard County or the military veteran organization of your choice.