Dianne O’Neil passed away peacefully on October 23rd, following a brief stay at Humber River Hospital. Her passing came just over eleven weeks after the loss of her beloved husband, Jim O’Neil. Jim was the love of Dianne’s life, and his death left her heartbroken.

She leaves behind her brother, Danny Zagrosik, her brother-in-law, Sean O’Neil, her godson, Liam Kerr, and a wide circle of friends who loved her deeply.

Dianne grew up in Etobicoke, attending Royal York Collegiate and Western University. After university, and a year as an English high school teacher, she and Jim embarked on an adventure in Europe, embodying the free-spirited lifestyle of the iconic hippie era. Upon returning to Canada, Dianne began working at the Department of Immigration. Later, she co-owned and operated a Mail Boxes International franchise with a friend, before retiring.

For 40 years, Dianne and Jim made their home at Old Mill Terrace, a gathering place for friends and family. Their love of travel, golf at Markland Woods, and winters in Naples became defining parts of their lives.
To those who knew her, Dianne was unforgettable. She was dynamic, bold, intelligent, fun, and fiercely unique. Her generosity and thoughtfulness touched many, and her zest for life was unmatched. Dianne had a legendary appetite for both good food and good company. She loved scrabble, bridge, crosswords, great books, and spending summers at the cottage in Haliburton. Whether on the golf course or at lunch with friends, Dianne embraced life with gusto. In her battle with COPD, she fought with determination.
Dianne was a force of nature, and she will be profoundly missed.

Arrangements are being handled by Turner and Porter Yorke Chapel. While there will be no formal service, a niche for Dianne and Jim will be established at Parklawn Cemetery, where they can be visited in the future. Though no official celebration of life is planned yet, friends and family are encouraged to raise a glass of red wine in Dianne’s memory whenever the moment feels right.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Dianne’s memory may be made to Dorothy Ley Hospice, Heart and Stroke Foundation, or the Canadian Cancer Society. Online condolences can be shared at www.turnerporter.ca.