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John “Mike” Thir, 68, of King George, VA, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, in Largo, MD.
Born on January 12, 1957, in LaPlata, MD, Mike was the son of the late John and Beulah Thir.
He is survived by his devoted wife, Lori Thir; his proud son, John “Mike” Thir Jr. (Sarah), his loving daughter, Kristen Vernon (Bill); sister, Debbie Shearer; his brother, Richard Thir, and his treasured grandchildren Kamryn, Dawson, Garrett, Brynne, and Reagan, who were the light of his life.
Mike was a man of few words, his quiet nature a comforting presence to those around him. He was always the quiet strength in his family’s lives-calm and steady with perfectly timed humor. Though he was reserved, his actions spoke volumes - not only through his skilled carpentry but especially in his passion for restoring cars. There was something magical about bringing old engines back to life, polishing every detail, and reviving stories from the past through each restored vehicle. Yet, above all, his greatest passion was his family. Mike’s guidance and unwavering love were the foundation upon which his children and grandchildren built their lives.
Mike’s presence brought warmth and strength to all who knew him, and his legacy of kindness, craftsmanship, and family devotion will live on in the hearts of those he loved.
Friends and family are invited to gather in remembrance on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, from 10:00 AM until the service at noon, at Arehart-Echols Funeral Home, 211 St. Mary’s Ave., LaPlata, MD. Interment will follow at Queen of Peace Cemetery, 38888 Dr. Johnson Rd., Mechanicsville, MD.
In honor of Mike’s memory, memorial contributions may be made to: Poss Family Foundation for Pancreatic Cancer.
https://ccharities.fcsuite.com/erp/donate/create/fund?funit_id=2386
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