Harry Douglas O’Neal (known to many as “Pat”), born July 7, 1945, of Fort Erie, Ontario, passed away on December 22, 2025, at the age of 80.
Harry devoted his career to IBM, retiring in 1992. Outside of work, his happy place was the garage—tools out, and an old car project always on the go. He loved working on classic cars and spent countless hours “puttering,” especially on his 1929 Ford Model A, which remained a work in progress. For Harry, the joy was always in the tinkering.
Harry’s passion for mechanics also lived at the racetrack. He served as chief mechanic for Formula 1200 race cars and was proud to serve for many years as President of the FTDA. One of his proudest racing accomplishments was winning the Championship in 2005.
Harry is survived by his wife Marguerite; his daughter, Jennifer (Chris); his step-children, Melissa (Ryan), Roger (Chiara) and Nikki (Steve). He was a proud grandfather to Harrison, Sydney, Emma, Max, Zoë, Marcus, Celia, Marissa and Landon. Harry is also survived by his sister, Joyce Southern.
Harry was predeceased by his sons, Craig (December 2020) and Patrick (infant).
Harry will be remembered for his devotion to his family, his steady presence, and the quiet happiness he found in fixing, building, and helping others. He will be deeply missed.
A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, January 4, 2026, from 1:00–4:00 p.m. at the Brooklin Pub (Whitby).
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer Society in Harry’s memory.
Funeral Details
Show location:
Celebration of Life
Brooklin Pub
15 Baldwin Street, Whitby, ON, CANADA, L1M 0K8
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