In memory of
Dennis Eugene O'Leary
October 10, 1934 - February 11, 2025
With heavy hearts, we share the passing of Dennis Eugene O’Leary, who left us on February 11, 2025, in his 91st year. Though he was with us for many wonderful years, it still feels too soon to say goodbye.
Dennis was a devoted husband of 63 years to Janet O’Leary (pre-deceased), father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He is lovingly remembered by his four children; Edward (Joan), Bruce (Gillian), David, and Karen (Aaron), as well as his seven grandchildren; (Meaghan (Chris), Tracy (Adam), Dennis, Jenna (Judd), Andrew (Sam), Tyler, and Lindsay, and seven great-grandchildren; (Maverick, Emma, Sophie, Charlotte, Lachlan, Isla, and Charlie) all of whom he adored and took immense pride in. His family was his greatest joy, and his love for them was unwavering.
Dennis was born in, Avonlea, Saskatchewan on Oct 10, 1934, to Marie and Fred O’Leary. He was the 8th of 9 children (all pre-deceased). Dennis was a man of deep integrity, unwavering dedication, and quiet strength which is evident in everything he accomplished.
After finishing high school, Dennis joined the Royal Canadian Air Force and graduated from the University of Saskatchewan with a degree in Mechanical Engineering. He started working at the Air Force Base in Sydney, NS where he met his future wife, Janet. Their military life led them across several postings in Canada including Toronto, Ottawa, Moncton and Winnipeg as well as a posting in France. After serving his country with pride, spending 21 years in the military, where he rose to the rank of Major, he continued his service to the community for another 21 years as Commissioner of Building Maintenance and Construction for the City of Scarborough. He played a vital role in shaping the city he called home for nearly five decades.
Beyond his professional life, Dennis had a rich and full personal life. He was a man of many talents and passionate about golfing and curling which he played into his 80’s. His hobbies of carpentry, gardening, winemaking, cross word puzzles, bridge, and ballroom dancing were just a few of the things that brought him joy. He loved to learn, create, and share his wisdom with those around him.
His hands were always busy, whether tending to his garden, building something with care, or holding the hand of a loved one on the dance floor.
In his final months, Dennis found new comfort and companionship at Viva Whitby Retirement Home, where he enjoyed sharing stories and making new friends.
His wisdom, warmth, and steady presence will be deeply missed, but his memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
A celebration of life is planned at the Simple Alternative Funeral Centre, 1057 Brock Rd, Pickering ON L1W3T7 on Saturday, March 8th. Visitation is from 10-11 am with service to follow at 11 am.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to The Legion National Foundation - https://lnfcanada.ca or Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation - https://supportthepmcf.ca
Rest easy, Dad. You’ve had a life well lived, and you will never be forgotten.
Dennis was a devoted husband of 63 years to Janet O’Leary (pre-deceased), father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He is lovingly remembered by his four children; Edward (Joan), Bruce (Gillian), David, and Karen (Aaron), as well as his seven grandchildren; (Meaghan (Chris), Tracy (Adam), Dennis, Jenna (Judd), Andrew (Sam), Tyler, and Lindsay, and seven great-grandchildren; (Maverick, Emma, Sophie, Charlotte, Lachlan, Isla, and Charlie) all of whom he adored and took immense pride in. His family was his greatest joy, and his love for them was unwavering.
Dennis was born in, Avonlea, Saskatchewan on Oct 10, 1934, to Marie and Fred O’Leary. He was the 8th of 9 children (all pre-deceased). Dennis was a man of deep integrity, unwavering dedication, and quiet strength which is evident in everything he accomplished.
After finishing high school, Dennis joined the Royal Canadian Air Force and graduated from the University of Saskatchewan with a degree in Mechanical Engineering. He started working at the Air Force Base in Sydney, NS where he met his future wife, Janet. Their military life led them across several postings in Canada including Toronto, Ottawa, Moncton and Winnipeg as well as a posting in France. After serving his country with pride, spending 21 years in the military, where he rose to the rank of Major, he continued his service to the community for another 21 years as Commissioner of Building Maintenance and Construction for the City of Scarborough. He played a vital role in shaping the city he called home for nearly five decades.
Beyond his professional life, Dennis had a rich and full personal life. He was a man of many talents and passionate about golfing and curling which he played into his 80’s. His hobbies of carpentry, gardening, winemaking, cross word puzzles, bridge, and ballroom dancing were just a few of the things that brought him joy. He loved to learn, create, and share his wisdom with those around him.
His hands were always busy, whether tending to his garden, building something with care, or holding the hand of a loved one on the dance floor.
In his final months, Dennis found new comfort and companionship at Viva Whitby Retirement Home, where he enjoyed sharing stories and making new friends.
His wisdom, warmth, and steady presence will be deeply missed, but his memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
A celebration of life is planned at the Simple Alternative Funeral Centre, 1057 Brock Rd, Pickering ON L1W3T7 on Saturday, March 8th. Visitation is from 10-11 am with service to follow at 11 am.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to The Legion National Foundation - https://lnfcanada.ca or Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation - https://supportthepmcf.ca
Rest easy, Dad. You’ve had a life well lived, and you will never be forgotten.
Funeral Details
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Visitation
The Simple Alternative - Pickering
1057 Brock Road, Pickering, ON, CANADA, L1W 3T7
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Saturday, 8 Mar 2025 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Funeral
The Simple Alternative - Pickering
1057 Brock Road, Pickering, ON, CANADA, L1W 3T7
Get Directions
Saturday, 8 Mar 2025 11:00 AM