elevated OhDLD Born 24 September 1932

elevated OhDLD Died 27 January 2022

elevated OhDLD  

elevated OhDLD Obituary   
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Alexander (Alex) O’Brien on 27 January 2022 at the age of 89. Loving father to Kevin, Debbie, Tammy, Jeffrey, Karen, and Mary Joan, and proud grandfather to Calum, Lochlain, Ryleigh, Teaghan, Alistair, Cate and Maggie, he will be hugely missed by all of these plus his many siblings, nieces, nephews, and those across his community that he so very much enjoyed engaging with every day.

elevated OhDLD Alex grew up on a farm in Alexandria in the Eastern Townships of Ontario, the fourth of seven children born to John O’Brien and Sarah McCulloch, before moving to Toronto. He completed programs in accounting and business administration from McMaster University and the University of Toronto, before embarking on a 35-year career in finance and administration including at the Chief Financial Officer and executive management levels. He also worked with the Canadian and Ontario International Trade Offices travelling all over Asia, Eastern and Western Europe – including into both China and the Soviet Union during the height of the Cold War – developing foreign investment and export opportunities. Both during and following his career in finance, Alex loved nothing more than working in the outdoors and engaging with those in the community while he did so. He peppered his communications with puns and riddles, all the while enjoying a seemingly never-ending supply of mints, Tootsie rolls and Werthers. He never met a breakfast buffet that he couldn’t tackle, no matter how long it took! Alex was very proud of his children and grandchildren, always loving to hear their latest accomplishments in work, play, sports or music. He was a huge supporter of charities focused on mothers and children, especially in the developing world; so much of this stemmed from his love for God, his very strong advocacy of the power of a positive outlook, and his belief in God’s love for all. Having grown-up playing soccer and running track at a highly-competitive level, as well as shinny hockey on the frozen ponds of his childhood, Alex maintained a love for these sports – as well as golfing, skiing (especially in the Swiss Alps), football and basketball – over his lifetime. Right up to the end, he was always looking for that next lottery win, with the goal of being able to continue supporting those he loved and cared for even as he struggled increasingly with his own infirmities and declining health.

elevated OhDLD Due to COVID-19 restrictions, a private service will be held for immediate family to commemorate Alex and celebrate his life. Otherwise, a mass will be said for Alex at St Gabriel’s Passionist Parish Church in North York (Toronto) at 4:30pm on 5 February 2022. In lieu of flowers, Alex has suggested that donations can be made to Covenant House, Plan Canada International, or Birthright International.

elevated OhDLD