OLIVER PACE

1940 - 2023

PACE, OLIVER February 1, 1940 - January 9, 2023 Oliver lived life well and with his beloved wife, Lorraine O'Donnell (died 2006), he lived life to the fullest. They hosted gourmet meals, wine tastings, cooking classes and celebrations in their Victorian home lasting into the wee hours. Their warm spirits, Lorraine's exquisite table treatments and Oliver's eclectic music choices are memorable. Their passion for food and wine motivated them to travel widely and discover delights gleaned from the Michelin Guide. Oliver lived for the moment and attracted like-minded people. He and an intimate group of friends, 'Les Mangeurs,' annually celebrated Epiphany and other events with extraordinary feasts. Born in Italy's Abruzzo region, Oliver and his family came to Canada in 1952. He overcame language barriers and excelled academically at Central Tech, and later Central Commerce. At 19, he interrupted his schooling to work for the Ontario Provincial Police. After meeting his future wife, Lorraine, Oliver completed the requirements to go to university. He earned his BA in History and Spanish at York University, and completed a year of graduate studies at University of Toronto before deciding to share his knowledge and passion for history and art as an educator. After completing his Bachelor of Education, Oliver taught history and religion at Paul Dwyer Secondary School (formerly Oshawa Catholic High School). During Oliver's 28-year tenure at Paul Dwyer, he became a much loved teacher. Students admired his dynamic teaching style and passion. Oliver organized student trips to Rome, Greece and Egypt during March breaks. Students stayed in touch with him even after his retirement. Oliver and Lorraine ended their careers teaching abroad in Lahore, Hanoi and Cairo. Ever-willing to explore new cultures, they accumulated fascinating collectibles. The work overseas helped finance the purchase of a derelict farmhouse in Tuscany, which became a treasured retreat for Oliver. The death of his beloved Lorraine in 2006 was devastating. In 2008, Oliver was diagnosed with Parkinson's; a disease he endured with courage, determination and defiance. He participated in dancing and singing programs for people with Parkinson's. With the help of family and friends, he accomplished the renovation of his Tuscany home. Oliver was determined to age at home. Helped by his devoted sister, Mary, and a team of attendants, Oliver fulfilled that dream. After surviving COVID and other setbacks, Oliver's decline became more rapid. Palliative care ensured Oliver's end of life was comfortable, peaceful and dignified. He took his last breath with his caregiver and loving sister by his side, as the music of Ludovico Einaudi played softly. Oliver's ashes will be dispersed in Lough Erne, Ireland, to join Lorraine's, and in Monte Mitra, Italy. Oliver will be missed by his family, sisters, Nancy Cooke (Stephen), Mary, and Joanne Kerr (Randy); his nephew, Jason Kerr; his niece, Olivia Cooke (James), and their two darling girls, Emily and Mia; his in-laws, Brian O'Donnell (Sharon) and their daughters, Lori and Kerri; Blanche Drahun (John) and their sons, Darryl and Todd O'Donnell and Justin Drahun, and their children, Connor and Hailey, Ryan, and Cole; Patricia O'Dell (Alasdair Maclean); and by his devoted attendants and the many students, colleagues and friends whose lives he enriched. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Oliver's dedicated attendants, the medical team at The Movement Disorder Centre at UHN and the palliative team at the Tammy Latner Centre. Funeral ceremonies will take place at the Cardinal Funeral Home, Bathurst/Dundas location, Toronto. Visitation on Friday, January 20, 2023, from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m., and on Saturday, from 12-1 p.m. The Celebration of Oliver's Life will be held in the Cardinal Chapel on Saturday, 21, 2023, at 1 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Parkinson Canada. The service will be livestreamed.