It is with the heaviest of hearts that we announce the tragic passing of MWO Christopher Patrick O'Leary - Canadian Special Operations Forces Command (CANSOFCOM). His life was cut too short, at the age of 45, on Thursday, April 11th, 2024, at the University of Ottawa Heart Institute.
MWO Christopher O'Leary dedicated his entire career & passion for life to the military; enlisting in the Royal Canadian Navy in 2001, Nova Scotia; crossing over to the Canadian Army in 2011. In 2023 a dream came true for Christopher, becoming a member of CANSOFCOM.
Christopher exuded this same passion & loyalty to the "Love of his Life", Lindsay for almost 6 beautiful, adventurous years together.
Christopher leaves behind his wife, Lindsay and their two fur-babies Beanie and Freddie; his Grandfather Clarence William Thornhill, Father (George) Patrick O'Leary, Mother Sharon O'Leary, Sister Andrea O'Leary and many relatives in the O'Leary/Thornhill extended family; In-laws - the Fry Family, relatives and extended family; the Tantalo Family and many, many friends and family in his Military Community.
A Military Funeral Service & Send-Off to honour MWO Christopher O'Leary will be held Wednesday, May 1st, 2024 at Beechwood National Memorial Centre, Ottawa, Ontario.
1130 Visitation within the Hall of Colours
1300 Funeral Service
1400 Reception
For those not able to attend Christopher's Service in person, you may register for the Live-Streaming Services here.
A private family interment will follow May 2nd within the National Military Cemetery located within Beechwood Cemetery.
The Family wishes to thank the CICU Teams of the University of Ottawa Heart Institute for the exemplary care & compassion provided to Christopher & Lindsay. Their professionalism was above & beyond; but their devotion to Christopher & Lindsay will never be forgotten.
In addition, special thanks to Christopher's military family and team at CANSOFCOM. Their professionalism, love, and support throughout this trying time can never be replaced.
In lieu of flowers, the Family would prefer donations to the University of Ottawa Heart Institute or CANSOFCOM V42
Digital Guestbook
Bryan Thompson
Jeff Hagerman (neighbour)
Deepest condolences to Lindsay and the O’Leary family during this awful time.
My prayers and thoughts are with you all.
Phillippe Anderson
Chris buddy... what can I say. I remember when I met you about 18 years ago. Who the heck is this guy? He's looks like he just left the salon and has terrible taste in music. I knew we were gona be the best of buddies; especially after I used your personal smoothie blender to make smoked salmon mousse. Do you know what is was like to hear you complain that the smell and taste never went away lol. I wish I could hear that just one more time. You were a shipmate, stood by my side and let me cry on your shoulder. I was so happy and blessed to have you as an instructor in Borden last Fall. I was so proud to watch and listen while you spoke with passion. I'm so glad that you found true love and was able to be happy. I'd cried for your loss but I smile when I think of your celebration. You were truly unique and we're a genuine gift to the cooks trade, CAF and everyone fortunate to have met you. You were a strong dude and could lift lots of weight but the spirits you lifted will be your real legacy. I love you buds.
Matthew Breckon
I was sad to hear about Chris' passing. Although we never worked together professionally, His name was respected in our trade. My sincere condolences to your friends and family. You have made a positive impact on many military members, your service and dedication to our country and our trade are something we should all strive to achieve. Respect to my fallen brother in arms.
Joe Picca
Our deepest condolences to Lindsay and the O’Leary family. Chris was a mentor, friend, and an inspiration. Our entire team at CSOTC are heartbroken over Chris’s passing and I speak for us all when I say we’re truly honoured to have served with such a passionate soldier. Chris, you’ll be missed and forever in our hearts…until we meet again, Sir.
Julien Trudeau Senécal
Chris was a friend and a mentor. He taught me how to be a good cook but also how to be a good leader.
I had the deepest of respect for him and admired his courage and compassion. He wanted to take the Cook trade to a better and brighter place. I will keep on carrying his legacy.
Thank you for everything Chris, you will never be forgotten.
Leon Ledgister
Rest easy my brother. It was a pleasure serving alongside you. You will be missed. Heartfelt condolences to Lindsay, and your entire family.
Canadian Forces Logistics Training Centre - Command Team
On behalf of the team at CFLTC, we wish to convey our deepest condolences on the loss of Chris. The news has hit hard here at our logistics homestation. Chris is very fondly remembered at CFLTC as a consummate professional and mentor. The impact he has had on both staff and students will forever live on.
Raymond Ferguson
This was so sad to hear of your passing. Only a few years ago I was your chaperon when you came to give your unit a taste of the Navy life by visiting and touring the submarine, one of our CPF's and a tour of Citadel Hill. We had fun and had a chance to catch up and talk about making the Cooks Trade better for our Jrs. you will certainly be missed my friend and I will hold on to the memories of us working out at Stadacona Gym. RIP
Ninon Martin
Your loss is felt by all of us, and we offer our deepest sympathies.
Ninon from the Civ HR Team
I am so shocked and saddened by this news, in the short time we worked together at CFLTC I enjoyed his company and our conversations on the development of recruits and the future of our occupations...Chris, I'll miss you. My sincere condolences to his family and loved ones, at this time I am at a loss for words.