Our bright and inspiring father, grandfather of three, passed away suddenly at the Toronto General Hospital in his 90th year. All who knew him will agree that his was a life well-lived. While his loss is felt deeply, we celebrate his life and the impact he had on those he encountered. Dennis’ story began on a farm in Downeyville, Ontario. Born second eldest of 5 children to Dennis and Kathleen, he embraced physical tasks and learned the importance of discipline and family. He also developed a keen passion for reading and learning. At the age of 17, after high school graduation and six weeks at Toronto Normal School, he began teaching in a one-room school near Powassan, with students from grades 1 to 10. The following year he taught at a school two miles from his home in Downeyville. He then enrolled in an undergraduate BA program at St. Michael’s College, University of Toronto. He graduated first in his class in 1949 and was only one of five awarded a gold medal. He then set his sights on law and enrolled in Osgoode Hall Law School, graduating in 1952. With his call to the Bar in 1953, he moved to Hamilton where he practiced civil and criminal law for the next 20 years. In 1969 he served as the President of the St. Thomas More Lawyers’ Guild, and in 1971 he served as President of the Hamilton Lawyers’ Club. On January 25, 1973, he was appointed to the Supreme Court of Ontario where he presided until reaching the mandatory retirement age of 75. During his time on the Bench, Dennis issued or participated in many notable Judgments and Decisions. Even with retirement, he remained an avid follower of the law and was appointed as a member of the Human Rights Board and the Ontario Review Board.
His love for law, history, geography, philosophy, and nature remained throughout his life. Dennis never strayed too far from a book or magazine and took great pride in his collection of the World Book Encyclopedia, Life, National Geographic and Time Magazines. He was passionate about inspiring others to read and learn, always quick to share newly acquired information with friends and family. Dennis was keenly interested in politics and was a loyal member of the Liberal Party. In 1959, he was the Provincial Liberal candidate for Hamilton Centre. His love of politics continued throughout his life.
Dennis’ love of life also extended to playing tennis, skiing, curling, and bridge. Together he and his first wife Betty would make numerous trips to Mexico, Europe, and the Caribbean Islands. Even after the arrival of their four children, trips continued and became more ambitious with the “pack of six” negotiating Europe in a two door Fiat. Dennis enjoyed his time with the entire extended family, particularly when it involved a lively political or other topical debate around the dinner table. The joy he took in such occasions was evident to all. In 2006, Dennis married Francesca Meneguzzi. Together they engaged in many diverse activities including oil painting, live theatre, gardening, travel, building and enjoying their beautiful Southampton property. All who knew Dennis will forever cherish their time spent together. His warmth and enlightening spirit will be missed.
Dennis O'Leary is survived by his four children Dennis (Bente), Lisanne, Bridget (Stephen) and Sean (Karen), his grandchildren Patrick, Brenna and Alexandra and his sisters Catherine Voisin and Marie DiSilvestro. Predeceased by his first wife Betty, second wife Francesca, and brothers Joe and Austin. Special mention to his caregivers Wilma, Loren and Gaynor who were a constant source of recent support, laughter and care. Friends and family are invited to attend at the Turner and Porter Funeral Home located at 4933 Dundas Street West, Sunday, March 6, 2016, from 2-5 pm. A Funeral Mass in celebration of Dennis' life will be held on Monday, March 7, 2016, at 11 a.m., at Our Lady of Sorrows Church, 3055 Bloor Street West, Toronto. Reception to follow. The family requests that donations be made in lieu of flowers to the University Health Network.