May we find comfort in the treasured memories of those no longer with us.
Obituary
John was a devoted husband to Mary, his wife of 47 years, and “the best dad in the world” to his children, John, Sue and Tony. He was much loved by his daughters-in-law, Eileen and Susan, and his son-in-law, Norman. He was also a cherished Grandad to his six adored grandsons, whom he no doubt taught some of the best ways to get into trouble.
The stories shared by those who knew John paint a picture of a truly remarkable man. Eileen remembers how he would collect her from the hospital on Mondays. She loved getting the lift but dreaded the inevitable visit to Knob Hill Farms, where John—flyer in hand—would lead the charge on his weekly bargain hunt.
To his colleagues at Sherway Gardens, John was a “great guy,” a “great boss” and a “class act”—a respected mentor who helped others develop their careers. To his family, he was the “BFG—the Big Friendly Giant with the giant smile,” whose company was always filled with laughter. He was also the self-appointed president of the Brian Tyrrell fan club, with a level of dedication that occasionally bordered on professional stalking.
John is remembered for his wonderful sense of humour, his love of football, his kindness and the unmistakable glint of mischief in his eyes. One tribute beautifully captured what so many felt: “Many things have been forgotten since you left us, but you will never be one of the forgotten.”
The photographs gathered here—from John’s younger years in Ireland to snowy Canadian winters and precious moments with his grandchildren—tell the story of a life filled with family, friendship, love and laughter.
Though John is dearly missed, the memories he created continue to bring comfort and smiles to everyone fortunate enough to have known him.
Timeline
Despite being a true Dublin boy, his Kilcullen birthplace gave the family plenty of opportunities to slag him about being a “redneck”—a joke that followed him through the years.
John grew up in the Stoneybatter area and attended St Gabriel’s National School, beginning a lifelong connection with Dublin
Their romance brought them to England, and in April 1965 they were married at St Anselm’s Church in Tooting Bec, Wandsworth, Surrey. Mary was 19 and John was 21.
That meeting at Barry’s Hotel became the beginning of a loving marriage that would last 47 years, take them from Dublin to England and eventually Canada, and bring them three children and six adored grandsons.
Former customers remember Selwyns as a lively part of Bedford life during the late 1960s and early 1970s. John worked alongside the charismatic Marshall Muselle, who became a familiar local character with his distinctive patter and impressive cars.
Years later, Steven Foley specifically remembered John as the manager—a small but valuable glimpse into John’s working life in England before his return to Ireland.
Returning was bittersweet. It meant leaving behind the life they had built in England, while rediscovering the people, places and unmistakable character of Dublin. Despite all that had changed, it was still home—and the beginning of another important chapter in their family’s life.
Standing at the entrance was “Big John.” He was more than the man on security—he was the good-humoured gatekeeper and a front-row observer of Dublin nightlife in the 1980s.
John enforced the strict “shoes and collar” dress code, kept an eye on those attempting to slip guests past the hotel stairs, and watched ministers enjoy themselves while their patient Garda drivers waited outside.
Then there was the famous late-night chicken curry, served as part of the licensing arrangements of the time and responsible for its own share of confusion and comedy. From the hopeful romantics to the fast-talking chancers, Big John saw it all.
John went on to become Chief of Security at Sherway Gardens, a position he held for a number of years and of which he was immensely proud. He earned the respect of those who worked with him and was remembered by former colleagues as a “great guy,” a “great boss” and a “class act” who helped others develop their careers.
O'REILLY, John - Suddenly at his residence on Wednesday, September 26, 2012 at the age of 69. Dearly missed by his loving wife Mary of 47 years. The best dad in the world to John, Sue (Norm) and Tony (Susan). Grandad to 6 adored grandsons. Friends may call at PINE HILLS CEMETERY & VISITATION CENTRE, 625 Birchmount Rd., Scarborough (north of St. Clair Ave. E., 416-267-8229), on Saturday, September 29, 2012 at 3 p.m. until time of service at 4 p.m. If so desired, donations may be made to the Canadian Diabetes Association.
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