My memories of Dave O'Leary go way back to the early 90's when he came to Capilano College (now Cap University) as the new head of Advising.  I was in the Counselling Dept. and we all worked pretty closely together in those days.  His arrival was like a ray of sunshine!  He was so bright, so positive, so caring towards students and colleagues alike.  It was always a joy to be around him.   One time (for a skit--educational, of course) I had to dress up as a cowboy.  Dave sent over an entire outfit for me to wear:  boots, shirt, belt buckle, and cowboy hat.  I can truly say  I had a little taste of being in his shoes.  His musical talent was also very much appreciated, and he was special friends with Lynne Hamilton in our dept.  Lynne has passed away now,  and I hope they will meet up again to make some heavenly music.   My condolences to Dave's family---you were lucky to have him!!

I remember Dave well from when I grew up on Topsail Hill.  Dave would have been a year or so older than me.  We were just one big group of neighbourhood kids of all ages. That’s the way it was then.  It was understood the older kids always  kept an eye out for the younger ones.  It was such a great way to grow up. We spent our free time exploring, playing ball, swimming and just hanging out. I remember Dave being a big part of this group that is my fondest childhood memory. 

It's been hard to find words to adequately describe how great of a person Dave was, his positive impact on the world around him, and condolences to his family.

Dave has always been a positive driving force in my life, the lives of those around him, and to the world at large.  Every time meeting with Dave whether it be face-to-face or over a video-call has put a smile on my face and I appreciate all the support, advice, and experience he has shared over the years.

I was shocked at the news of his passing and my heart goes out to all his loved ones. I feel that we have all had our lives enriched with having had Dave in it and we can all continue to bear his torch, trying our best to be a positive force and support the worlds around us.

Dave was a mentor, colleague, and a friend. I've learned a lot from him and will cherish our experiences.

Shaun and family, our condolences go out to you all. Thank you as well for everything you have done; Our thoughts are with you.

Derek Wallace

Heartfelt condolences go out to the family.   Dave had been optimistic, so words cannot describe the shock we all felt at the suddenness of his untimely passing. My son, Derek, who is living in Tokyo, tried, but could not arrange to be here on short notice. Derek has worked with Dave and he and Shaun are good friends.  When my husband passed away in 2015, the funeral, thanksgiving, and Derek’s birthday all happened at the same time. Shaun was one of his friends who took the time to take Derek out, so that he could have some good memories of that period; so Derek wanted very much to be here to support Dave’s family.  I, with my family, hope that good memories sustain you, remembering Dave’s strength, humour, kindness and love for his family.

Marj, Danielle (& family) & Derek Wallace

I was very saddened to hear the news of Dave's passing.  Dave was always such a great guy with such a positive attitude.  Smart, Kind and generous in all he did.  He always made everyone feel important and was very attentive during conversations.  Dave sat on our Board of Directors as a NWCC representative for 9 years and always had positive feedback to add to every meeting he attended.  His list of accomplishments are immeasurable.  My condolences to Connie and his family.

Thecla Fladhamer

My deepest condolences to Connie, Shawn, Paul, Diane and family.

Dave’s profound impact and his everlasting love and caring is felt by so many– his family, friends, and colleagues.

Moreover, Dave made so many significant lasting global contributions. 

In communities, education, academia--Dave awarded the nation’s highest academic leadership award, serving two terms government ICT Sector Council; Chair of the National Council of IT Deans (top leadership bodies); several terms as academic Dean, CIO, Vice-President; presenting papers and speaking at global conferences for the UN and IEEE (top global engineering organization). 

In science and government—Dave served on the UN-founded elite IFIP Global Industry Council, chief editor Global Skills Report; two terms with ACM (top global computer science organization) Practitioner Board (PB) Professional Development Committee, Chair PB Marketing Committee; two terms as President CIPS BC (CIPS government chartered IT organization representing Canadian IT professionals); Dave contributed to national privacy legislation and first nations programs. 

In industry—Dave served as founding CEO for award winning Igen Knowledge Solutions; top writer for IDG-IT World (largest IT media); founding general partner REDD Capital (Venture Investment Partners). 

Dave also was spiritual brother with his continual giving, sharing -- in my case for nearly 30 years which I will always cherish and pass forward by his lasting legacy inspired by his passion. Dave was trustworthy, hard working, brilliant and yet the most down to earth and grounded person. His optimism filled the room, his laughter brought joy to those around him, his endless energy was infectious, his stories about his life and experiences compelling and especially from such humble beginnings. Most of all, he so dearly loved his family. 
There is so much more to say about Dave. He will continue in our actions and memories.

Sincerely,
Stephen Ibaraki


My first memory of Dave was walking into his office not knowing what direction to take , Not really sure of where my strengths were  , Dave helped me pull together some career goals though I never did stay on the exact path . I did reach many other goals and did the one thing he suggested " keep liking your talents keep enjoying the moments that inspire them."  Thank you Dave for your kindness.
To reconnect with you after so many years passed was AWESOME I would have loved to have shared more laughter .
 Till we meet again in the great beyond I shall share my prayers and tears with your loved ones <3 Dave's wife Connie, his two sons Paul and Shaun O'Leary; his brothers Kevin and Bill O'Leary; his sisters Dianne Price, Elaine Cook and Jeanette Reagan, mother-in-law, Maggie, nephews; Daniel, Bradley and Liam, nieces; Elaine, Rachel, Caitlin and Claire; will forever cherish their fond memories and celebrate Dave's amazing passion-filled life; and his warm loving spirit. So too, will his many close friends and colleagues.
Feeling  Blessed to have known you 
   Shari 

Dave was a great neighbour to all of us. Always helpful with a big smile. We will miss you Dave
Hella

OBITUARY

David Patrick O'Leary

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