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Holly (O’Brien) Fike
In loving memory of Holly Mae Fike.
Holly (O’Brien) Fike, 69, passed away peacefully in her sleep on Wednesday, September 3, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. She was preceded in death by both her parents, Kenneth and Ida, her sisters Beverly and Janet, her best friend Carol Dailey and her husband, Al.
Holly was born in Ludington on December 20, 1955 to Kenneth and Ida Smith. Holly graduated from Ludington High School in 1974 and went to work as a student assistant at Social Services. She then transitioned to work at the Ludington Daily News, where she would remain until her retirement. Holly was fortunate enough to be able to have a second chance at love later in life. She married her soulmate, Al Fike, in 2003. Tragically, that marriage was cut short due to Al suffering a major, fatal heart attack in the home they shared.
Holly had many struggles in life to overcome, but she chose to find joy in life’s simple pleasures. Even though she had not been able to fully walk in almost 30 years, she found her joy in cozy afternoons, putting together puzzles, playing games, sharing laughter with those she loved and heartfelt conversations. Holly was a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She was fortunate enough to be able to provide daycare for her oldest grandchildren, Ashleigh and Kelly when they were younger. They formed a special bond that lasts a lifetime. Her gentle smile, thoughtful advice and caring nature touched everyone she met, leaving lasting memories of her gentle presence and thoughtful ways. Holly had a heart of gold and a kind spirit, and she will be missed dearly by the ones she leaves behind.
She is survived by her ‘favorite’ son, Michael O’Brien and her loving daughter, Marcia (Jason) Gokey. Holly’s legacy continues through her cherished grandchildren, Ashleigh, Kelly, Jacob, George, and her great grandchildren, Alana, Delilah, Melina and Braydon. Holly is also survived by her sisters Nancy (Robert) Courteau and Dolly (Rick) Boerema, one brother David Smith, and cherished friend Rich Dailey. She was also proud of all her nieces and nephews and enjoyed feeling connected through Facebook.
There will be a celebration of life held at the Hamlin Township Hall in Ludington from 2 to 4 p.m. on Thursday, September 11, 2025. In lieu of flowers, Holly would like everyone to just donate to someone in need. Help the elderly, assist the disabled, and just take care of each other and any of those less fortunate than yourselves.
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