Obituary for Michael O'Leary

Life Story for Michael O'Leary

Long-time Acton-area Councillor passes away

HALTON HILLS, ON – Mike O’Leary, who has served as a Ward 1 councillor for Acton since 2003, has passed away after a brief illness.

“On behalf of Town Council, I offer sincere condolences to Mike’s family and friends,” said Mayor Rick Bonnette. “Mike loved this community. He served with dignity and passion and was very well liked. He will be missed.”

Councillor O’Leary was first elected to Council in 2003, was acclaimed in 2006 and 2010 and won re-election in 2014. Before entering politics, Councillor O’Leary had a lengthy business career. He was National Sales Manager for Hallmark Canada where he was in charge of Market Development. He later operated his own business for more than 20 years.

“Mike enjoyed a successful career in business and he brought that experience and perspective to Council. He had an appreciation for the value of a dollar, which is why he was always careful with taxpayers’ money,” added Mayor Bonnette.

Councillor O’Leary also wrote a weekly newspaper column for the Acton Tanner and volunteered at the Acton Fall Fair for more than 25 years. He was also a past Grand Knight of the Knights of Columbus. His community service work also included working on both the building and fundraising committees for Acton Agricultural Society’s indoor soccer field project. Councillor O’Leary guided the Economic Development Strategy Action Plan and recently served on the Town’s Corporate Affairs and Fire Committees.

Flags will be flown at half-mast at all Town buildings.