In Loving Memory of Michael “Garlic Mike” Oswald
With a heavy heart, we share the passing of Michael “Garlic Mike” Oswald, who died unexpectedly this week, just days after receiving the Hotel Veteran of the Year Award. His death has left a profound void in the hearts of his family, friends, and the entire Legends of the Fog community.
Michael was more than a performer; he was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, remembered for his quiet strength, generosity, and inventive spirit. Joining Legends of the Fog in 2008 alongside his son Steven, Mike first donned a Ghillie suit in the finale of the original maze. Yet his true legacy was not in blending into the shadows, but in standing boldly at the forefront of the scare.
When the Farewell Hotel attraction opened, Mike introduced the unforgettable hunchback character, armed with a hidden compressed-air backpack. His nightly ritual of eating a bulb of garlic earned him the nickname “Garlic Mike,” a title that became legendary among guests. Year after year, visitors returned asking for “the garlic guy,” always finding him in his familiar spot patrolling the Hotel queue line. His signature style—an alarming “Hey!”, a sudden blast of air, and the unmistakable scent of garlic—made him one of the most iconic figures in the attraction’s history.
Beyond his performances, Mike was known for his humor, creativity, and generosity. He gave freely of himself, donating snacks to the Hotel cast and crew, and even providing a limousine for the Junkyard attraction. That same car once carried Steven and his friends from Baltimore to the Fog, a symbol of his dedication to both family and community.
Mike’s unwavering presence and boundless energy will be deeply missed. His contributions helped shape the spirit of Legends of the Fog, and his memory will live on in every scare, every laugh, and every shared story among cast and fans alike.
As we mourn his passing, we also celebrate the joy he brought to so many. His spirit will forever remain a part of the Farewell Hotel, where his legacy continues to inspire.
RIP Michael “Garlic Mike” Oswald (1963–2025)
Leave a Reply