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Patrick O'DONNELL
Patrick O'DONNELL
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Patrick O'DONNELL Obituary
Lieutenant-General (Ret'd) , CMM, CD
July 12, 1940 - September 24, 2015
Peacefully at home, surrounded by his immediate family, on Thursday, September 24, 2015 in his 76th year. Beloved husband of Julianna (nee Boyko) for 54 years. Cherished father of Kathleen (Eric Devenny), Sean, and Erin (Claude Paul). Much loved and very proud and doting grandfather of Laura and Caroline Devenny. He joined the RCAF in January 1959 and trained as a Radio Officer and Navigator. His flying tours included Air Transport Command (426 and 437 Squadrons) and Maritime Command (VP 405). Served as Squadron Commander (VP 405); Base Commander of CFB Greenwood, NS; Commander of Maritime Air Group; and Commander of Canada's Northern Regions. Served abroad in tours at NATO's AFCENT HQ in the Netherlands and as a faculty advisor at the NATO Defence College in Rome. He also attended the RAF Staff College in the UK. He was appointed Deputy Commander of Air Command, ADM (Personnel) of DND, and his final appointment being Vice Chief of the Defence Staff. After retiring from the military, he joined SPAR's Aviation Services Division and then later became a senior partner at CFN Consultants. He also served as President of the Canadian Defence Industries Association. His greatest joy in life was being with his family. Paddy was known to be unfailingly kind, generous and thoughtful to the people around him. Friends may call at the
Garden Chapel of Tubman Funeral Homes
3440 Richmond Road, Nepean
on Tuesday, September 29 from 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. and on Wednesday, September 30 from 2:00 to 4:00 and 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. Private Family Service. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that any donations be made to the Canadian Cancer Society. Condolences, tributes or donations may be made at www.tubmanfuneralhomes.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
20 Entries
Helen Ross
October 7, 2015
There are no words to express the sadness that is felt with his passing. He left behind a legacy that few know of and memories that will bring happiness to those that have them.
Gordon J. Smith, FCPA,FCGA
October 7, 2015
So sorry to hear of Patrick's passing.
As his accountant, I was attempting to reach him only to find out that it was no longer possible.
Mr. O'Donnell is one of the finest men I have ever met. It was a pleasure working with him during the past 30+ years.
I will miss your visits to our office Patty.
Tom McMullen
October 6, 2015
A group of Paddy's hockey friends from the Sensplex Seniors League were saddened to learn today of his passing. He was a true gentleman and a great team mate both on and off the ice.
We shared a smile when we were reminded today that Paddy was the only player who, while into his seventies, insisted on climbing over the boards to get to the bench after his shifts, while his team mates (some 20 years younger) were often too exhausted or lazy to attempt it, choosing to take the easier route through the door.
He will be missed.
Our sincere condolences to his family.
October 5, 2015
Sean, I am sorry for your loss. Tom Vincent.
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Tom Lawson
October 2, 2015
Paddy was the finest of gentlemen and a master mentor. I was one who looked to him for sage advice and guidance. We will long miss him.
September 30, 2015
Julie and family
Audrian joins me in offering sincere condolences to you and your entire family.
Paddy was a great officer, a loyal and supportive comrade and above all, a wonderful human being with an equally wonderful outlook on life and sense of humour. He will forever be remembered by me as one of the most generous friends and supporters I had in the second half of my career. He was greatly admired and will be sorely missed.
May our thoughts of support for you be meaningful to you.
Audrian and David
Garry Dowd
September 29, 2015
I was a Cpl and the General was a LCol then in AFCENT, Holland early 1970's. We played softball together on the Canadian team. Then when I was a CWO and working at NDHQ I went up one day to the executive suite. He was I believe the DCDS at the time. We had a great chat that day talking about our times in AFCENT and other events. My wife and I were saddened to hear of "Paddy's' passing. We offer our Deepest Sympathy to Julianna and the family. Maybe someday the General and I will play ball again.
CWO (Ret'd) Garry and Donna Dowd
[email protected]
Gaston Cloutier
September 29, 2015
An inspiring leader who knew how to create highly-motivated teams. Respected by all, he was an outstanding officer and a great man. My deepest condolences to his family.
September 28, 2015
A wonderful general officer has headed home. I was privileged to know him and serve with him. To the family I wish them health happiness and success. We have lost a great man from our earthly domain, but we shall meet him again.
Lt Gen Lou Cuppens sends
Charles Bouchard
September 28, 2015
He was a great leader, a fine friend and a caring mentor, we will remember him.
Bill Watt
September 28, 2015
Dear Paddy,
You were a great guy to fly with: always professional - but with a sense of humour.
I will never forget the wry smile, the occasional twinkle in the eye and the infectious laugh. You were always aware of and usually saw humour in the quirks of human nature.
You will be remembered by many.
Ian McIntyre
September 28, 2015
Well liked and well appreciated by all. I had the pleasure of working with him in uniform and during our second careers. Always a pleasure to meet and quick with a kind word.
Dr. J. LeRoy Pearce
September 28, 2015
A well respected General, Leader and gentleman that I was privileged to have met and known through our careers.
Spence & Barbara Gludish
September 28, 2015
Julie, our condolences to you and your family. Paddy was an excellent officer and kind gentleman. Remembering the good times in Trenton and Greenwood.
Gord Moscrip
September 28, 2015
Paddy was an inspiration to CF Navs & RO's for his entire career. Always a gentleman, he will certainly be missed by all who knew him.
(A former Nav and Defence scientist.)
George Macdonald
September 28, 2015
Paddy was a terrific mentor, well-respected colleague and valued friend. His influence throughout the defence community was legion. He will be missed by a great many of us, and especially those of us at CFN Consultants.
Larry Stewart
September 28, 2015
One of the very best Air Force officers, respected and admired by all -- and with good reason. Just a nice person.
Condolences to the family who have discovered a hole in their lives but that shortly will be filled by wonderful memories shared with this down to earth person.
Jeneane & Ed de Caux
September 26, 2015
Julie, please accept our sincere condolences on the passing of Paddy. We offer you our thoughts and prayers during this trying time.
BOB BOVA
September 26, 2015
FAREWELL GENERAL.
Mary Devenny
September 26, 2015
Rest in peace Pat, our love, prayers kind thoughts go to Pat's family at this time.
Bruce, Mary and Chris Deveny
Showing 1 - 20 of 20 results
3440 Richmond Road, Nepean, ON K2H 8H7
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