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
Lucinda
Jean-Charles Ferland
My sincere condolences Lindsay, to you and your families. I never got the chance to meet you but heard so much good about you from Chris. I always saw him as an inspiration, a mentor, someone that I looked up to. Chris was a great man, a kind man, thoughtful and passionate, he would make every step possible to help others, even they did not show him the same level of respect or compassion in return.
To you Chris, stand down brother, your duty is done, rest in peace my friend, I know you will watch over your loved ones from upstairs.
JC
Tonya Berriman
I’ve watched Christopher grow from a good kid, Into a great man. He, was deeply loved By his family and friends and will be deeply missed by his family and friends. Love you Chris, rest in peace.
Douglas Klingbile
Such a tragic loss. Words can’t express the respect and appreciation I had for Chris. He was a great mentor and friend to all that crossed his path. RIP Chris. Condolences to all family and friends.
Kerri W
I am very saddened to hear of Chris's passing. I worked with him during my short time at DBMQ in Borden. We always had very interesting and funny conversations. His witty charm was something that always made me laugh. I am very thankful he made time to visit during his 1 day tasking in Edmonton last month and will always keep the funny memories. Lindsay, my heart is broken for you and I know there are no words to make this better. Rest assured that he loved you with all his heart. Hugs to you, my heartfelt thoughts are with you and your family during this extremely difficult time. RIP Chris.
Very sadden to hear of Chris’ passing. I worked with him at CFTLC (DBMQ) and he is fondly remembered by the original DBMQ crew. I am sending my condolences to his wife and his family. Truly devastating.