John Montross O’Hara

SALISBURY — John Montross O’Hara Sr., age 96, a longtime resident of Twin Lakes, Connecticut, passed away peacefully at his home on May 2, 2026. Born in Torrington, Connecticut, John was raised in Twin Lakes, where he developed a deep and lifelong connection to the community. He graduated from Housatonic Valley Regional High School in Falls Village, Class of 1947, and went on to attend The Citadel before continuing his studies through the ROTC program at the University of Virginia, graduating with the Class of 1951. He proudly served his country for two years during the Korean War.

Following his military service, John returned to the University of Virginia, where he earned his law degree. He went on to achieve the highest score on the New York Bar Examination at the time.

John began his legal career with the distinguished New York City law firm of Rogers & Wells, where he practiced for 10 years. In 1968, John and his family moved to Michigan to join R.L. Polk & Company as General Counsel. His leadership and vision led to his appointment as Chief Executive Officer in 1978, a role he held until his retirement in 1990. During his tenure, he made significant contributions to the automotive industry and was honored with a Distinguished Service Citation. He was also inducted into the Motor Vehicle Hall of Fame by the American Motor Vehicle Manufacturers Association at a ceremony in Las Vegas. Following his retirement, John divided his time between Rancho Santa Fe, California, and his beloved Twin Lakes, Connecticut.

In 1954, John married Mildred Michel, with whom he shared many years until her passing in 1980. In 1984, he married Sally Henby.John was preceded in death by Sally and his brother, Jesse T. O’Hara. He is survived by his children, Pamela Johnson (Wally), John M. O’Hara Jr. (Amy), and Chris Baron (Mark); five grandchildren; one great-grandchild and Sally’s children and extended family.

John will be remembered for his intelligence, leadership, dedication to family, and the integrity with which he lived his life. His legacy will endure through the many lives he touched.

Funeral services for John M. O’Hara will be held on Tuesday May 12, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. in the Newkirk-Palmer Funeral Home 118 Main St. North Canaan, CT 06018. Burial will follow with full military honors in Grassy Hill Cemetery, Falls Village, CT. Calling hours will be held at the funeral home on Monday May 10, 2026 from 4:00 - 6:00 p.m. and again Tuesday morning from 10:00 - 11:00 a.m.

In lieu of flowers please contribute to the Twin Lakes Association, twinlakesorg.org.