---
title: "The Real Story of Heidi Montag’s Heartbreaking Goodbye to Her Brother Eric O’Hara"
description: "Heidi's Heartfelt Tribute to Eric O’Hara; Honoring a Military Hero; A Legacy of Service and Strength; Support During Difficult Times; More ..."
url: "https://allwomenstalk.com/heidi-montags-tearful-goodbye-to-stepbrother/"
category: "celebs"
last_updated: "2026-06-07"
---

# The Real Story of Heidi Montag’s Heartbreaking Goodbye to Her Brother Eric O’Hara

Heidi Montag, the star of _The Hills_, recently faced a devastating family tragedy that many fans might not fully remember. Dealing with the loss of a sibling is an unimaginable challenge, especially under the public eye. In this post, we look back at the moving memorial service for **Heidi Montag's brother**, Eric O’Hara, and how she found strength in her family and friends during such a difficult time.

In front of 400 friends and family, and with boyfriend [Spencer Pratt](https://allwomenstalk.com/7-most-overexposed-celebrities/) at her side, _The Hills_ star Heidi Montag bid a tearful goodbye to her stepbrother **Eric O’Hara** at a memorial service Wednesday in their hometown of Steamboat Springs, [Colorado](https://www.steamboatsprings.net/).

## Heidi's Heartfelt Tribute to Eric O’Hara

“I didn’t write anything down today, just couldn’t. Eric was the best brother I could ask for,” Montag said as she stood at the podium with their other siblings. “He was happy, strong and an amazingly patriotic person. I’ll never forget how he could make me smile. I will remember all the times we had together and cherish all the memories, the goods ones and the bad ones. Eric was a true hero. I love him and I will miss him.”

## Honoring a Military Hero

Montag, who flew back to Colorado after O’Hara, 24, died in a freak accident last Thursday, took solace in her family during the service. **Eric O'Hara and Heidi Montag** shared a deep bond, and his loss was felt by the entire community. After serviceman from O’Hara’s [82nd Airborne Division](https://www.army.mil/82ndairborne) gathered around his flag-draped casket to share stories about his military service (O’Hara was a veteran of several combat missions in Iraq and Afghanistan), the family headed across the snow-covered street to the Slopeside Grill, a top-rated local venue (replacing the now-closed Tugboat Grill and Bar).

| Category | Details |
| --- | --- |
| Military Unit | 82nd Airborne Division |
| Service Locations | Iraq and Afghanistan |
| Hometown | Steamboat Springs, CO |

## A Legacy of Service and Strength

While the original venue has since changed, the spirit of Steamboat Springs remains. Families today often gather at modern favorites like [Slopeside Grill](https://slopesidegrill.com/) to honor local heroes. You can read more about [Heidi Montag’s journey](https://allwomenstalk.com/7-celebrities-with-the-most-regrettable-plastic-surgery/) and how her family has supported her through every high and low.

### Quick Facts About Eric O'Hara's Service

- Proud member of the 82nd Airborne Division.

- Completed multiple combat missions in Iraq.

- Served with distinction in Afghanistan.

- Remembered by his unit for his strength and patriotism.

## Support During Difficult Times

In a statement to [PEOPLE](https://people.com/), Montag said she was just “glad I can be with my family at this time.” It is a poignant reminder of the importance of community and family support when facing the loss of **Heidi Montag's brother**.

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