Michael C. Mahar

Michael Carl Mahar, avid skier and sailor, relentless builder and problem solver, and above all, aviator, is now flying eternally. He left this world on Wednesday May 30 in a sailing accident, right after Wednesday night races at EYC. It is impossible to capture the enormity of his character or the impact he had on all of the people whose lives he touched.

There was nothing that Mike could not imagine and build. He had a tool shop in his parents basement from the age of 4, built a gas powered go cart at age 5 and has been building, designing and fixing ever since. He discovered flying at age15 and had his pilots license before he could drive. He went on to become a tool and die maker, eventually forming his own company which he nurtured, guided and sweated for for over 40 years. He loved sailboat racing and shared that love with countless others, teaching and sharing his skills.

Survivors include two daughters, Molly and Kelley, whom he raised to be tough and brave, to follow through on everything they start, and embrace their passions; Lois, his wife of 51 years who joined him in some of his adventures and embarked on many of her own; his sister, Anne Mahar; Bob Schilling, business partner and close friend; the guys at the shop, countless fellow sailors, skiers and flyers.

Building experimental airplanes shaped the last 20 years of Mike’s life. Flying was a passion that he shared with many others, continuing to learn, teach and mentor many other pilots and builders. He lived every minute of his 80 years. The hole he leaves behind will be felt by all those that knew him for many years. Funeral Mass Friday June 8, 2018 at 11am at the Carmelite Monastery 3176 Fairmont Blvd. Cleveland Hts. (PLEASE MEET AT MONASTERY). Family suggest contributions may be made to the Carmelite Sisters 3176 Fairmont Blvd. Cleveland Heights Oh. 44118.