Obituary of Dawn Anne O'Hearn

Dawn Anne O’Hearn (nee Thompson) of St. Marys, originally from Etobicoke, Ontario passed away peacefully on July 15, 2024, at the age of 91. True to her nature, she left on her own terms, “appropriately dressed” and calling all her own shots.

Born on September 22, 1932, to Grace and Leslie Thompson, Dawn came from a family whose roots in Etobicoke ran deep and whose commitment to service helped shape their community in enduring ways. Dawn followed her brother Glenn to Sunnylea Public School and then Etobicoke Collegiate, where she met Chuck O’Hearn, her devoted life partner of more than 50 years. Together, Chuck and Dawn built a beautiful life that centred around their children: Lynn, Brian, Larry, Susan, Gregory, Janet and Carol. Their home was always open to all and was a haven to their kids and friends.

Dawn was an independent woman who loved to be socially engaged and always made time for those who needed a listening ear. Her community service spanned decades, including Girl Guide leadership, volunteering at the provincial court probation office, Marriage Encounter guidance, elementary student mentoring and hospice companion work. She cultivated a legacy of service and compassion in her loving children and was deeply cherished by her 13 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren.

Dawn will be laid to rest near the family cottage in Victoria Harbour, alongside her beloved husband Chuck and her son Brian. A celebration of her incredible life will take place at a later date.