David J. O’Leary

It’s sad to loose one of the good guys. He was a lovely, fun, inspiring man. Always happy and positive. A fun lightbulb has gone out.

I would like to say how sorry i was to hear of his passing. One of the more difficult things that happened to me growing up is when my Stepfather and Mother relocated us to California away from my Grandma, Uncle Dave , Aunt Janet and all my great cousins. Most of all I missed all the laughter and closeness of my extended family. Although, watching him from a far I can say that I still benefited as he was a great role model to me even at a distance.

He hired me over 50 years ago. There are other loyal O’Leary employees that were there when I started and are still loyal members of the O’Leary Paint family. How many people can say they love their boss? You can find a lot of them who worked for him. I will always be in debt to him for he provided for me and my family and gave me great opportunities. Looking forward to seeing you again in heaven.

I remember his laughter and genuine desire to know each person he met. I knew Mr. O’Leary when I worked at Capitol Bancorp. He was the real deal! So sorry for your loss.

I’ll miss you so much, Grandpa. I’m so grateful for the time we shared and the chance to help care for you in your final years. I hope to always carry your positivity and gratitude for life with me.

It’s impossible to find the words. I loved him dearly. This truly breaks my heart.

It was an honor to have known David, who lived with purpose and grace. During my time at the Lansing Board of Water and Light, I witnessed firsthand his invaluable contributions as a Board Member. His leadership, generosity, wit, and unwavering kindness left an imprint not only on the organization, but also on the broader community he served so faithfully.

I will always remember the way he valued differing viewpoints, never dismissing another perspective. With respect and wisdom, he would often say, “Let’s agree to disagree,” gently reminding us that mutual respect was more important than winning an argument. With deep gratitude for the privilege of knowing such a kind and faithful man — may he rest in peace.

Uncle Dave was there throughout my life,
Not a huge presence but at all times in sight.
Our visits were rare but always a treat,
He made me smile whenever we’d meet.
Uncle Dave always had a wisecrack or a quip,
But that never hid an intellect sharp as a whip.
His business acumen was second to none,
From Silver Lead to O’Leary Paint, and beyond.
Uncle Dave was devoted to his wonderful wife Janet,
She and his kids rank with the best on the planet.
His bond with my father was truly indestructible,
They stood tall together when most would have buckled.
Although I will miss him nearly twenty-four seven,
I smile because Uncle Dave is with Janet in heaven,

John, Joan and family members……may God’s abundant peace find you with the loss of you father. The messages here on this page say it all. You were blessed with a wonderful man and Kenda and I lift you all up in prayer.

Dave Sr. is the reason I was able to establish a long time career in the Paint business.
He has always been supportive and appreciative along the way. His smile was contagious and his humor would resonate in your mind for days. Impossible not to Love this man. RIP Big Guy.

Thanks for the beautiful obituary for a beautiful man. David O’Leary cannot be forgotten by the people who knew him. An astute business man, a quick wit, a warm friend, a fierce lover of the community and devoted to his family. Each of my lunches with Dave was memorable. His conversations were always straightforward, honest and filled with empathy. His sense of humor and twinkling eye were always a pleasure to experience. Dave’s spirit will live on for generations through his family and friends.

David was my confirmation sponsor. He was a cousin, his mother was my grandmothers (Dency Cook’s) sister.

He was gracious and generous with welcoming thoughts and comments. Always made you feel welcome, appreciated and respected. I always looked forward to seeing and be with him. We have livered around the county outside of the Lansing area for years but he and Janet were never out of our minds and prayers. Great people, great family and trusted friends.

I know he will be missed and trust that he is in heaven with Janet and his family around him

God Bless him, rest in peace, I know he will.

Dave and I enjoyed many times together. We met in Lansing Rotary years ago and were close friends. He & Janet invited me to many events at the Lansing Country Club and I introduced him to the University Club where we celebrated many of his birthdays. His life is a model for all, and his family summed it up nicely in the obituary. He will be missed but the memories will sustain us.

I met Dave at Rotary, he nominated me for President and when I was elected he told me not to embarrass myself ( doesn’t that sound like him).
We served on the Capitol National Corporate Board. He was such an asset with very sage and thoughtful input.
More important he was a friend! God bless you Dave and your family!

I have had the privilege and pleasure to work for the O’Learys for 42 years. I was hired by Dave Sr.
What a great guy! For me all of my memories are how witty he was and he always made others around feel good about themselves.He always had a story for what ever the topic of conversation was!
And those stories were not just funny but purposeful!. I am very proud to have been a very small part of this O’Leary paint company and it all started with that interview with Dave O’Leary in 1983!

To the OLeary family.My condolences to your family.It has been years since I have seen him.He was always a nice person just like your grandparents.Back in the day I had to go to silver lead many time to get paint I would always to stop and talk to David. He will be missed.