On January 14, GMI president and CEO Michael G. O’Rear suffered a sudden heart attack. After several days in intensive care, surrounded by family and friends, Mike died of complications. He was 57. He had led GMI since 1991 and was a faithful contributor to Brigada, both in sending in news items and in sending financial help. In fact, he had just sent his most recent gift about 14 days before his death. Together with others, he co-wrote mislinks.org, helped publish “The World of Islam” and Operation China, developed the web and ebook form of Operation World for Patrick Johnstone and company (as well as the CD and DVD versions too), and much more. The global mission enterprise has lost a champion. But Heaven gained a great citizen — and one day we’ll see Mike again… and he’ll have maps drawn of the entire place… and he’ll distribute them on the latest medium when we arrive, whatever that medium is — he’ll be ready. For is wife, Laura, their four adult children, one grandson, and a daughter-in-law expecting triplets later this year, we offer our most heartfelt sympathy and prayers. For Heaven we celebrate.
I never had the privilege of meeting Mike face to face. However, I knew his name and I benefitted greatly from his maps and written materials. Thank you Lord, for Mike’s life well lived for the advance of the gospel.
WOW, first David Mays and now Mike O’Rear! Two giants in the field of missions I first became acquainted with back in the 90’s and were instrumental in my missions education. Never met Mike, though I spoke with him on an occasion or two and used GMI’s resources several times. Wow, again…My condolences to his family and friends and associates.
Mike and Laura were great neighbors when we knew them in Pasadena. He was a gentlemen and had a servant’s heart. His assistance at GMI on pulling together maps on mission to Buddhists always made our task a delight. He is already missed. Our hearts grieve for Laura and their family. Our kids used to play together and on occassion have friendly mudball wars. Praying for the family. It’s a sobering reminder of the preciousness of our lives and rekindles my determination to finish well and keep my eyes on the goal of the upward call. May we all press on with renewed committment as a brother passes. Blessings, JCS
I am shocked and saddened to see this news. Another great missionary friend of mine, Dennis Smith, also just passed away in January. Mike was a great servant of the Lord and did a great work at GMI for the glory of God among the unreached peoples. We will surely miss him. Our family will be in prayer for Laura and family. May God grant His peace and comfort during this days,
Randy Sperger