Hal-O'Leary-Obituary

Hal O'Leary

Obituary

Hal O’Leary was the founder of the National Sports Center for the Disabled, which offers skiing and other sports for athletes with disabilities.

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I was in the Children's Hospital Ski Program. I started skiing with Hal when I was eleven years old. I absolutely loved skiing with everyone that was involved in the program. They were indeed some of the best years of my life!

I was in the disabled skier program in 1978-79 at Winter Park. I loved every minute of it. I had a wonderful ski instructor who was very kind and caring. Unfortunately I don't remember if I got to meet Hal or not. Because of Hal, a lot of disabled people got to do things they might never have had the opportunity to do.

I met Hal in 1972. He took me under his wing when I was just 8. He taught me how to ski in Winter Part. I was privileged enough to be in the Special Olympics. I'm now 59. It's amazing that I remembered his name.

My wife and I were volunteer instructors in the ski program for 10 years. We had so much fun and have great memories! Hal encouraged and helped me get into the University of Northern Colorado’s graduate school to pursue a degree working with people with disabilities. I have practiced as a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor for 30 years .

I will forever be indebted to him for his wisdom and kindness. He truly was a great human being!

From all of your friends in CT, or as you often referred to us, your CT family, thank you for 40 years of wonderful memories.
Steve

Worked for Hal as a ski instructor with adaptive ski program during the 1977-79 ski seasons.great guy ,did alot of good in this world and i am proud to have known him,worked for him.winter park will not be the same without him.Great American,SALUTE

My condolences go out to the O’Leary family. So sorry for your loss. Hal will be missed by many.

My condolences.

May your legacy live on.