Cancer Claims Life of Wyckoff Resident Mike O'Shea

A Wyckoff resident and former Glen Rock police officer died Saturday morning after a valiant fight with cancer, the department said.

Michael O'Shea, 44, was a husband and father of three young children.

O'Shea was diagnosed with acute myelogenous leukemia last year. He underwent aggressive treatment, including chemotherapy and a stem cell transplant.

A William Paterson University graduate, O'Shea began his career with the Los Angeles Police Department in 1996, receiving numerous meritorious service commendations. He returned to his former home of Glen Rock in 2003 and left in June of 2005 to accept a position as a federal DEA agent.

"The GRPD family would like to extend our sincere condolences to the O'Shea family during this difficult time. RIP Officer Michael O'Shea," the department wrote on its Facebook page.

An outpouring of support and condolences quickly followed the department's post, as well as on the Wyckoff 074ATE1 Facebook page.

"A former and beloved student," wrote Joan Lunn Hirning. "Heartbroken for his family and all of us who loved him."

"Heaven gained an angel today," added Erin Espie Smith. "RIP Mike."

Visitations will be held at Vander Plaat Funeral Home Monday and Tuesday from 2 to 4 p.m. and 7 to 9 p.m. The service will be held at St. Elizabeth's Wednesday at 10 a.m.