Leo “Mike” Bresnahan, Jr.

Surrounded by love, Leo “Mike” Bresnahan, Jr., 96, of Butler, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, leaving behind a lifetime of cherished memories with family and friends. Mike’s life was a blessing, his memory a treasure, and he will remain forever in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
Born Aug. 14, 1929, in Kaylor, Mike was the son of Leo Michael Bresnahan, Sr. and Elizabeth Rayburg Bresnahan. Raised with a strong sense of faith, dedication, and love for family, he carried those values throughout his life and into everything he did.
Mike married the love of his life, Sally Ann Hoover Bresnahan, on April 14, 1951, and they would have celebrated their 75th wedding anniversary this year. Their life together was centered on faith, love, and family, and they created a home filled with laughter, support, and lasting traditions.
Mike took great pride in his years of service to our country while serving in the United States Army. As a young man, he worked alongside his father on the railroad. He later became part owner of Stanley’s Bakery in Butler, he worked at Armco, and he finished his career working in finance.
Dad enjoyed playing cards, gardening, going to the casino, hunting, and bowling, but number one on the list was golfing. He treasured the time spent with his children, grandchildren, and loved ones. Whether sharing stories (and he had a few!), offering guidance, or simply enjoying time together — especially around the holidays—Dad’s greatest joy was being surrounded by those he loved.
Dad will be remembered for the faith that guided his life, his laughter, strength of character, unwavering devotion to family, and the quiet generosity that touched so many lives. He was quick to offer a helping hand, and he found joy in helping others.
Mike is survived by his children, Larry (Kathy Wheeler) Bresnahan, Dave Bresnahan, Sherry (Rex) Rodgers, Patty (George) Colosimo, Michele (Tim) Henry, and Holly (Chris) Martin; 11 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; and many beloved nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, Mike was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Sally Ann Hoover Bresnahan, who passed away Nov. 23, 2025; his sisters, Aggie Phillips and her husband, Joe, Peg Waltman and her husband, Don, Rose Dellana and her husband, Joe, and Betty Bresnahan; his in-laws, Keith Walley Hoover and Helen Davis Hoover; brother-in-law Keith M. Hoover and his wife, Grace Ann, and their two sons; daughter-in-law, Karen Graham Bresnahan; and grandson Christopher Michael Rodgers. There will be a big party in heaven; the family is back together!
The Bresnahan family thanks the dedicated team at VA Butler Healthcare for their kindness, care, and unwavering support throughout his life. We extend a special thank you to the nurses and aides at Concordia at The Orchard who lovingly cared for our dad. Know that he appreciated each one of you and he enjoyed the many chats and laughter you all shared.
There was no visitation. A Mass of Christian Burial was held privately at All Saints Parish, St. Andrew Roman Catholic Church, Butler.
Arrangements were entrusted to the care of Martin Funeral Home Downtown, 201 E. Cunningham St., Butler.