Obituary of Donald Gerard O’Leary

Donald O’Leary passed away peacefully on November 29, 2007, in the Saint John Regional Hospital Palliative Care Unit, following a long, courageous battle with cancer. He faced his battle with strength and dignity. Don was born in Saint John, N.B., Feb. 13, 1936, son of the late James O’Leary and Elizabeth MacEachern. Don worked as a stevedore for 42 years and was a member of Local I.L.A.273. Don is survived by his loving wife of 54 years Shirley (MacKay), son Don (Oshawa ON), daughter Cathy, son Paul (Suzanne), and brother John. Don, better known as “Papa” was a man of few words, but words were not necessary when it came to his family. Don has five grandchildren: Allyson Langille (Tyler), Heidi Barnes “Spanky”, Ryan and Chris O’Leary (mother Beth O’Leary, Oshawa ON), and Brendan O’Leary. The proudest role of his life was being “Papa”; he was a kind and generous man who adored his grandchildren and they adored him. Don was an avid harness racing fan and enjoyed trips to New Hampshire with his family to watch the dog races. He was also an avid Boston Red Sox fan. Don will be sadly missed but always loved. He was predeceased by his brother Jimmie O’Leary (his best buddy) and his sister Shirley Walsh; he is also survived by numerous nephews and nieces. Resting at Brenan’s Select Community Funeral Home, 111 Paradise Row, Saint John, NB, where visiting will take place 2-4 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. on Saturday, and Sunday. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Pius X Church, Somerset Street on Monday at 11:00 AM, with interment taking place at St. Joseph’s Cemetery. Donations to the Canadian Cancer Society will be appreciated.