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Monday Motivation | June 2, 2025

My Dad, My Hero

Celebrating the life and legacy of my dad, Denny O’Leary.

“An arch consists of two weaknesses, which, leaning on each other becomes a strength.” -Leonardo da Vinci

Growing up, many children believe their dad is Superman. From their youthful perspective, there’s simply nothing he can’t do.

As children age, though, the pristine cape Dad once wore begins to tarnish.

Whether it’s the occasional disappointments or just advancing through adolescent years, the mask of perfection fades. Dad can’t fix everything, and they don’t agree with all his rules. His hair grays, his waist expands and eventually his cape falls off entirely. Turns out, Dad can’t fly.

While that might be the reality for many kids, it wasn’t for my siblings and me.

Denny O’Leary’s health was legendary growing up. While I’d happily miss school for any reason possible, Dad never missed a single day of work. Perhaps more surprising to me as a kid, he never missed a single day of school; not one day missed in grade school, high school, college or law school.

Dad was perpetually in a good mood. As children our days began with him prancing into our rooms to get us up for school, crooning old marching songs he learned in the military. Each day he’d wear a suit and tie, drive us to school, work a full day and return home for dinner. He helped with our homework, made learning fun, and asked about our days.

Dad made each of his six kids feel as if we were his favorite and we loved how he adored our mom.

I recognize not everyone enjoyed a father like this, but my siblings and I were incredibly lucky – and grateful- to be raised by a super hero.

Then a Parkinson’s disease diagnosis three decades ago changed his life.

The man who never missed a day could no longer work. The father who was always moving was unable to move at all. The vocalist who sang military taps each morning to playfully coax his kids out of bed lost the ability to even speak. The man who was always serving others required full time care and constant attention. His life became incredibly difficult.

And yet the joy he radiated for life when we were kids continued to twinkle from Dad.

A few summers ago, we took a family vacation. Our Mom and Dad, their six kids and spouses, and all 21 grandbabies (at that time) stayed together in Florida. Dad spent a week enveloped with kids, swarmed with grandchildren and loved every moment.

One evening we celebrated with a bonfire on the beach. The sand was too soft and deep to roll my dad on the beach in his wheelchair. We resigned there was no way to get him down there to join us.

Until.

Until two stout sons-in-law and three strong grandchildren picked up his wheelchair and began the long journey out to the bonfire.

As the sun set on the horizon, the smaller grandchildren cheered as their grandpa- buoyed by faith and carried by love- did what seemed impossible: Dad flew above the sand.

During a situation most would be too scared to attempt or bitter to accept, Dad wore his trademark smile. In other words, his cape still fit. Our Superman could still fly.

My friends, while Dad spent the majority of his life working hard, being kind and making a profound difference in the lives of others, he spent the last several decades accepting help from others, embracing the life that was his and continuing to make a profound difference in the lives of others.

And he did so until he took his last breath, surrounded by loved ones at his home, just a few short days ago.

My friends, my family and I continue to grieve the loss of this great man here on earth, but we take solace in the knowledge that in the end, Dad didn’t need to fly to be a hero.

He simply needed to love, to serve, to smile through pain, and to let others lift him when he could no longer lift himself.

May all of us continue to live by this worthy example of a superhero.

Today is your day. Live Inspired.

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156 replies on “My Dad, My Hero”

Cuando se lucha para superar los momentos más difíciles es cuando se crece y luego se agradece. Excelente su historia.

Excellent movie. Many tears fell but my heart was full. Your life and your testimony will make a difference in this world.

I really believe you and your siblings were his superheroes in his mind…. And you all made him the “man” he was. God bless you all.

Your dad was great!!! That’s saying he had “I love you and there’s nothing you can do about it”, is something that I will pick up on. It fully tells a person that you’re saying it to you there is literally nothing that you can do about me loving you because I love you forever no matter what!!! It is amazing what you went through and what you’ve done with your life! I appreciate all the people that helped you through that. But ultimately it was you and God who really counted the mouse! The movie was great and I’m glad that I came across it!!! I hope your you and your family keep thriving. Stay close to your creator!

I am so thrilled you had such a wonderful father and family. The Good Lord allows us to endure much hardship to give us an opportunity to be patient, to be brave, to be resilient and to learn to be grateful and joyful through it all. Your family learned and lived these lessons well. Keep spreading God’s grace to others.

What beautiful words, I wish more people appreciated the most important thing in Life, The love of God and the good people who are there for us.

I loved the movie Soul of Fire. I love when family pull together and be come stronger as one. I know life can be challenging and there will be some obstacles. Life is what we make out of it. God will give you guidance,it’s up to you follow it.Remember when your health not so good. God will be there for you to see you through. The family that prays together stays together.

I just got done watching the movie “Soul On Fire. I can’t stop bawling. Great movie! When I seen that, your dad died, I just wanted to see what was on the Internet about him. That’s how I found out how you have a newsletter. I would love to receive it every Monday. I can use all the inspiration I can get. Thank you so very much.

May he rest in eternal peace 🙏 Loved the movie and how he was so loving towards John and siblings. God bless the entire family

May God continue to Bless You!!! Ty for being such an inspection! I so loved Soul on Fire! AMAZING! Thank you. God bless you and your beautiful family ❤️

Your story was beautiful and inspiring to watch in a movie. Reading further I noticed a story you wrote about your dad. As I was reading it, I wished so much that my sister, who was diagnosed with early Parkinson’s around the age of 50, could embrace life like your dad always did. Instead she’s angry and bitter blaming God and asking why me. She’s lost her faith and feels doing everything right in life why did she deserve Parkinson’s. She’ll be 62 in September but thinks her like is nearing its end. I don’t have the answers for her. I’ve prayed abd that’s all I can do, I lived through breast cancer, 2 brain aneurysms, a brain tumor and other medical issues but I never once blamed God. In fact, God gave me a new purpose in life as I was going through my cancer treatments allowing me to give back to my community by taking sports photos at games. It was my way to also heal and my happy place. Anyways, through all of life’s challenges, which there are many, I try to stay strong in my faith. Thank you again for sharing your story of your dad and your story of you surviving against the odds.
God bless,
Claire

I was moved watching the movie. Made me cry and made me smile. Such a beautiful life story to see a family and small boy grow through the faith of God and growing that strength together as a family. You’re wife made me feel that seeing the love 💕 in heart is all that mattered and not what she saw with her physical eyes it was so touching and cried with thinking that’s how you love person. Praise God!
I will share your story with others. God bless you and your families.

Very inspiring just knowing Jesus is a miracle worker and you believed and trusted and he brought you through
Now you are blessing others

Very inspiring just knowing Jesus is a miracle worker and you believe and trusted and he brought you through
Now you are blessing others

Condolences to your family. I just watched Soul on fire on Netflix tonight. It had me in tears I am a CNA at a hospital and I am in my 3rd quarter of nursing and I plan to work with kids at the hospital that I work in. Thank you so much

I loved how the movie, Soul on Fire, portrayed you and your family. I was truly moved by how you took what happened to transform and motivated so many people including me. Thanks for sharing your journey.

I love these words. How fortunate to be around loving and giving parents and people. I watched the movie Soul on Fire and it warmed my heart and soul. Thank you for all the inspiration. God bless you’s!

This was a very inspired movie. It makes you want to be more motivated and except what God given us and move on. Life is hard no matter what but there’s always someone who has worse than you. Thank you for your wonderful inspiration.

We just finished watching the movie Soul on Fire, and thought it was not only a Beautiful Story, but taught many life lessons along the way. Thank you. Also, my Husband has parkinsons as I write this, and we commented that like in your movie, we All have to make the best and be grateful for whatever situation we are given. A great Movie

I just watched “Soul On Fire.” Wonderful spiritual movie! Uplifting, powerful, and inspiring! This movie should be shown at every workplace, office, team locker rooms, and at all schools! In the world we live in today, this movie sends a very powerful message. It reminds us of how powerful the body, mind, and soul are! Thank you Mr. O’ Leary! May God continue to bless you and please continue to inspire the world!

I just watched “Soul on Fire” today with my friends at the community center in Buena Vista! John, what a dad and what a family God placed you in! That wasn’t an accident! It was a God incidence! I hope to tell my story someday about losing my 48 year old husband back in 1994! Two years later, I spent the next 19 years working as an usher for the Milwaukee Brewers. So I love baseball like you do! The Cardinals were one of our rivals! That’s for sure! I was able to see one of the playoff games at your beautiful ballpark! It was a magical night! Fathers can make such a difference in their children’s life’s like my husband did for our children! The Great Physician got you through along with your wonderful family, doctors and nurses, and so many friends and that wonderful wife of yours! You had a whole team plus the Cardinal organization! We need to tell our stories like you did to inspire others to never give up until God calls us home! God bless you and your family as you tell your stories!

I loved the movie Soul on Fire and was so inspired by the way Denny O’Leary was portrayed. His love and faith gave me hope that things can work out for my daughter.
You, John and your knowledge of language and ability to tell your story make you a fantastic, motivational, and inspirational speaker and writer.

Love the movie “Soul on Fire”, John. Your Dad’s love of his family came thru loud and clear as you told your story and how he influenced your will to survive to live tlige to the fullest. You’ve certainly done that. Thank you for a loving tribute to your Dad. You definitely inherited many of his genes and share a legacy with i others.”. May you receive many blessings from sharing your journey.

I just watched your movie…loved it!! I was recently diagnosed with Parkinsons…I like your Dad give my family, friends and work friends 100 & 10% and receive it in return…God has blessed me with a good husband, two wonderful children and 6 children…I will cherish every moment…Blessings!!🙏💜

What a wonderful father! Such an example of love courage and faith! My husband and I just watched Soul on Fire. We are in awe and are so inspired! We loved this!! Thank you for bringing your family to all of us who need the story!

I was an athlete, but after my diagnosis with Parkinson’s disease, my career crumbled, and I was unable to do anything as my symptoms advanced. I experienced brain fog, tremors, stiff muscles, anxiety, and difficulty walking or doing anything on my own. I used levodopa and carbidopa, and I also went through many neurological therapies. They helped only for a while, and later my symptoms became so severe that I thought I wasn’t going to survive. Eventually, I found remission and a complete recovery from my Parkinson’s disease after I was introduced to EarthCure Herbal Clinic (www. earthcureherbalclinic. com). I contacted them at “earthcureherbalclinic @ gmail. com” and purchased their PD treatment. I used it for four months, and all my terrifying symptoms declined. I got my life back in no time. I advise anyone suffering from any disease or virus to contact them immediately. You can also email them at info @ earthcureherbalclinic . com. I wish y’all quick recovery.

What a great man an example he was. He lived fiercely & loved fiercely! You all were so blessed to grow up in that kind of family!

That’s one of the greatest things. I have ever read in my short 57 years on this earth. I lost my super hero 10 years ago and struggled for a long time. This is truly inspiring. May your Dad , your super hero rest in peace. He truly is the definition of a angel that was amongst so many. Only God abd faith could give out his wisdom and unbelievable strength. I’m truly sorry for your loss. Please give spreading. Your passion and wisdom about life.

J’ai perdu mon père á l’age de 39 ans c’était une souffrance terrible tout le monde adorait papa, dès fois son abscence me tue, je pleure mais Dieu donne et Dieu reprends que sa volonté sois faite, Que papa repose en paix.Ce film m’a beaucoup aider rien n’est plus grand que la foie et l’amour de vos parents et Dieu est merveilleux.

Great parents and circle you had in your life! My sincerest condolences 💐 to you and your family for the loss of your father. He definitely had unconditional love for you!

Thank you. This is what I needed to read today. 🙏🏾 The movie inspired me to be grateful and know that I am worthy.

I just watched Soul on Fire and I have to say I cried and laughed at this amazing story. Your parents were both heroes and obviously raised amazing children. How blessed you all were to have such love and positivity in your lives despite the challenges.

Beautiful words to describe your father. Every word painted a mental picture of your father; a man I would like to be to my children.
Sorry for your loss
God bless

I just watched your movie on Netflix. What an amazing story. Ughhh…you had me crying throughout the whole movie. Happy and sad tears, I don’t think I’m the only one who has sad this. lol
Your story is so uplifting, that it made me think to myself everything I’m grateful for and to never take anything for granted & that’s even with the people that come into our lives. God is truly magical. God bless you and your family and this journey we call, life!! Amen🙏🏻✝️🫶🏻

What a beautiful tribute to your dad, a super hero! You and your family were truly blessed to have lived in a home full of love.

I am so touched by your story. It is beautiful! I saw the movie and cried so many times, in joy. This is such a great story! Thank you for sharing it. God bless you all!

A life we’ll lived, the inspiration is awesome, my son n n law in prison needs to hear John o leary, to learn too
Forgive himself before he dies with the
Guilt from causing a tragic accident..

I watch the movie and I cried it inspired me that there are a lot of miracles God has not given up on anyone even though it feels like he has. I love you John you inspired me to believe that everything will be okay life will go on and God has a plan for all of us whenever he is ready. Thank you

You and your dad are such an inspiration! Surviving after being burned all over your body when you were just 9 years old, is amazing. I just finished watching your movie “Soul on Fire. It was an emotional and inspiring film of what you overcame after your ordeal. You’re amazing, thank you for allowing me to hear your story 🙂

I just watched Soul on Fire this evening. What an inspiration your whole family is. After watching your movie, I was looking up additional information when I came upon “My Dad, My Hero”. My heartfelt sympathies to you all for the loss of such a wonderful man. He gave you all an awesome legacy. Thank you for sharing your life story and your love of life, family, hope, and survival against unimaginable odds. My respect and gratitude, Linda Young

Watching this movie inspires me to be the best I can be, showing in helping others also helps you & to look for the good in all.
If I ever feel negative I keep my thoughts in Philippians 4:8 ‘Finally, brothers & sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable–if anything is excellent or praiseworthy–think about such things’. Being in the medical field please know about ‘ISRIB’ (with DMSO only as solvent) that can resolve Alzheimers & Dementia in <24h to cells origin & restores even previous memories. NAR, no adverse reactions & crosses bbb (blood brain barrier). God Bless you for such a gift in making this movie!

What I needed this day God sent to me the inspirational story of John O’Leary and his incredible family. I had reach a point of despair but after watching his inspiring story I feel blessed. Really blessed.

John, I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your father. Though I never met him, I feel I know him in knowing you. I met you many years ago at a Tastefully Simple conference. I helped you with your credit card machine. I will always be inspired by you, the man your father raised. My heart is with you and your family, John.

I saw your film just now – Soul on Fire. The best and most inspirational film I have seen in my life. Full of love.

Thank you.

Such a wonderful story of love, encouragement, forgiveness and togetherness of the 0’Leary family with a strong father who loved and supported his family. Just wondering why Faith in God wasn’t mentioned? Does the family believe in Jesus Christ and witness for Him?

Would like a movie on your Dad and his challenges mixed with testimonials of others in the same boat. PS I think I have beginning stages if Parkinson’s

I cannot express How your movie, your story, your family and Your Father has deepened my faith in God and at 61 has forever changed my life. I went thru some trauma as a small child which I tried to block out by building a wall. I always thought I must have been bad for what happened to me. It must have been my fault. Most certainly God could not forgive me and I was unable to earn my way to heaven. I thought the closest I could get to heaven was to know my grandfather who was my mentor and friend. He was the most gentle Godly man I knew. Later in life I knew that I was forgiven by God. How could I ever forgive myself of the prodigal child I had become. My Grandfather lost His wife of over 40 years to a sudden diagnose to cancer at age 66. It was quick she had stage 4 cancer which started in her liver and spread through out her body. At the hospital the said she would have about 2 weeks if she did not have chemo. With chemo they would maybe prolong her life
about 6 months. She opted against and went to heaven exactly 2 weeks later.
At 13 I was devastated. My Grandma asked to see us kids my brother and I to say goodbye. Then my parents. We never saw her again. She only let my grandfather see her after that. I was told it was too painful for her after that. She wrote the family a poem How thankful and what gratitude she had for God of the life He had given her. Thanking the Lord, for making their home such a pleasant place. For taking care of all her needs. Thanking the Lord for being so faithful as her partner in business.
Thankful for her daughter, son-in-law, and grandchildren who gave her so much happiness. Thanking God for bringing so patient and kind, and accepting her weaknesses. For always being so faithful and a constant source of strength.
For providing Her with a home she loved which made it one of happiness. And together they thanked the Lord for their health and for His goodness that they had each other those many years.
She had a closed casket memorial service
I was invited to a private reviewal with my Mom and Her sister. My heart was too broken. I wanted to remember her alive.
I lost part of myself that day. I was very close to my grandmother. My Christ centered dynamic duo were no longer.
Our whole small family was crushed.
We embraced and surrounded my grandfather with care and love. He came over every night for supper. My mom took over my grandmothers role in their printing business. He was involved everyday in our lives. He lived another 30 years of losing His love of His life to the age the age of 96. He never remarried.
I never got married. I went thru menopause in my late 30 s .
My grandfather would ask me why I was not married.
I told him I could not find anyone like him. Until I found Jesus as my husband late in life at 48 in 2112. I was searching for a husband all those years to find out what was missing as my life partner was my intimate relationship with Jesus.
In 2006 my Grandfather went to be with the Lord in his sleep. I was called by my mother to be with him at the home. I knew he was dying and I escaped in a work trip because I could not face it. I was running ….. What made it worse I was also not there for my mother who could not watch him pass either. I was very close to my grandfather until that day.
I visited him all the time. I ran His business until He was 84 My Grandfather sold His house and moved in with my parents who had two homes 6 months in the Midwest and 6 months down south.
My Dad was an avid golfer loved to golf all year round. Which I enjoyed with them both until my grandfather turned 94. He then had to go to a memory care home for my parents could no longer care for him. I feel such regret. In 2112 my lifelong childhood and family friend Jean was diagnosed with a blood disease. I was driving 10 hours from visiting my parents for a week. I drove near her home on my way home Something told me to stop and stay with her a night to visit her since the diagnosis. I could not. Then two weeks later she was in the cities and called me from the hospital where she was having tests done. She asked me to visit I could not face it. So I did not. I spoke to her on the phone a couple of times. Then three weeks later at 50 she died of brain aneurysm in her home.
I went to her funeral. I had written something to read. I am terrified of public speaking but I did it. Which was a step forward since I could not speak at my grandfathers memorial service. But God was there that day in the domed chapel embellished with tiled angels and the pastor spoke to me while I was looking at memorial photo album of my grandparents and our family. He asked me what kind of man my grandfather was. I spoke a couple sentences showed him the album God spoke thru the pastor that day so eloquently who my grandfather was. Who was there that day
to be beside me my lifelong friend Jean.
She took the day off and drove 4 hours to the service. Since that day our family all moved down south to be near my parents in there golden years. My brother and I. Worked for 3 years trying to work 50 hours a week and cargo for my parents My Dad in a memory care facility with left body dementia and living and caring for my mom who needed a lot of physical care but in sound mind. Not taking care of myself I ended up in the hospital for a week. And then making a decision to quit my job to caregive full time for both my parents. I did so for 2 years they both went to heaven within 3 months of eachother in 2023. My brother when I was caregiving got remarried after 25 years of singleness. He wanted nothing to do with Financial’s, caregiving, or medical responsibilities. My new church family has become my new family. Since then I have lost. It has been a journey since then losing 8 other significant people in my life last year.
On going health issues My pituitary gland brain tumor, overweight, pre diabetic .
I totally changed my lifestyle Diet exercise
I have lost 27 lbs improving my health
The last 9 months I have suffered continuous illness One thing after another since march I have suffered extreme hives on my scalp mostly and elsewhere. Specialist after specialist they could not diagnose me. I prayed to be diagnosed and I have alpha gal with a dairy and many other common chemicals
In food, soap, shampoo, toothpaste deodorant eyedrops medicines vitamins
Right now I am on all natural foods and taking no meds or vitamins Trying to adjust all the changes Being in grief share for the 3 rd time Being alone on all the holidays and adjusting to six new families in our neighborhood Change is overrated. If it was not for my church family I would not be here. Thank you for your amazing movie It has been healing, has deepened my faith, inspirational, to be grateful to God in every circumstance,
To use what I have learned in suffering to serve, help, encourage,and inspire others
To forgive myself of my past mistakes and move forward in honor of those I had regrets. Watching your movie has been like reading the same chapter in the Bible each time God exposes something else He wants me to know and learn.
I cannot express How your movie has lit my soul on fire 🔥

My husband and I just went to your movie. Your story deeply touched us. From the bottom of our hearts thank you and your family for sharing this with us. You’re right – every life matters.

I’m so sorry for your loss. I just got back home from watching Soul On Fire. It was beautiful and uplifting. I’m so glad your dad got to see it before he passed. Our little town here in Oklahoma would love for you to speak as a fundraiser and mostly an opportunity to let our kids know how worthy they are!

Something about him that just could light up a room .I was always glad to see him even if he couldn’t say a word and left a son to carry the torch for him ,good job John couldn’t have two better friends 😇😇

My first memory of your dad was when, in the five grade, he set up a card table in his living room and tried to help me with my math home work. I experienced his quick wit, Four of us car pooled to SLUH. It was always three against one. It was impossible to defend yourself until one of the majority slip up and became the target for all the others I remember being at your parents apartment between my Alaska and Vietnam tours. Eileen had Coco do “Patty Cake”. Your day turn to Jimmy, just short of his first birthday and told him had three weeks to learn “Patty Cake” There were gorilla suit antic, Cardinal Puff stories Holes in ceiling made during a card game, a hole in a hollow core door (quickly cover with a mirror.

I’m so sorry for your loss John. What a beautiful example to us all of what it looks like to live your life well. Both in health and in sickness. Your writings and your talks about your dad on your podcast have given most of us just a rare glimpse into what Denny O’Leary was like, but what a gift it has been. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers as you celebrate his memory and mourn his absence.

I am so blessed to have known your parents and their strength, courage and wisdom. His legacy though is his love … for his devoted wife and family. That has radiated to all of us and will continue when things come up to remind us of this great man, For me, he was more than an inspiration….. He became my teacher!. He and your mom showed me what “ grace under fire” means by living it!

John, thank you for the wonderful tribute to your amazing dad. He was a true superhero – but not only to you and your brother and sisters, but to his many friends. While the Parkinson’s made many things difficult for your dad, Denny never complained. Never. The last time your dad and I had a real, down to earth conversation about about how he was doing, he said, as he always did, “I am fine, I am a very lucky guy”. I feel very lucky and blessed to have been a good friend of your superhero dad for more than a 60 years.

John, I am so sorry for your loss. Please accept my heartfelt condolences for you and your entire family. I hope that, with time, you find solace in your faith and the promise that you and your father will one day be together again in His eternal kingdom, free from all suffering. May you be surrounded by love and support as you navigate this difficult time and may cherished memories bring you comfort.

John, I am so very sorry for your loss. Please accept my heartfelt condolences for you and your entire family. I hope that, with time, you find solace in your faith and the promise that you and your father will one day be together again in His eternal kingdom, free from all suffering. May you be surrounded by love and support as you navigate this difficult time and may cherished memories bring you comfort. You are in my thoughts.

So sorry for your loss. Your dad and mom played an important part in my life. We prayed together at St. Ann’s. Your dad helped with the adoption of our son John and visited me in the hospital when I gave birth to my second son Thomas. I will always cherish the love and support we received from both of your parents.

So sorry for your loss of an inspiring father. You are blessed with such rich memories. May they always stay fresh. Keep sharing them to inspire more Superdads.

So very sorry for your loss. He sounded like a wonderful man and father. You were very blessed to have that example to guide your life. May God give you His peace and comfort you as you grieve with truth of eternal life and a heavenly reunion one day.

I’m so sorry for your loss! Thank you for sharing such wonderful memories and stories of this superhero! You are all in my thoughts and prayers!

I am deeply sorry for the loss you and your family are suffering. I am touched by the story of your father and the memories you and your siblings have of him – that will continue to live on through you each. I am grateful for the man he was – who taught you how to live and to share of yourself. You are changing many lives, inspiring so many, and that began with the work of your parents. I am grateful that you are allowing God to work through you. Praying for you and your family as you grieve and rejoice in the knowledge that you will see your father again one day.

Johnny, your super dad gave you so many amazing memories and was a super role model to all of you! I remember babysitting for your parents when they just had jimmy and your oldest sis in the old
Neighborhood in Normandy and he was such a fun kind man! He was a warrior through his hard times and I know he showed you endurance and strength all through your journey! I know how proud he was of each of you and he has a special place in heaven and will be with you in your big special
Heart forever! Love and hugs to your mom and what a blessing to have such an amazing superhero!

Legacy is not leaving something behind for other people. It’s leaving something behind in other people.” – Peter Strople

I’m pretty sure I first read this quote in one of your newsletters, John. My goodness what a legacy your dad has left in each of you. Praying for all of you. May your dad rest in eternal peace, and may God bring peace to your broken hearts.. “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” Psalms 34:18

I always look forward to reading your Monday Motivation messages, and today was such a moving tribute to a fine man-your dad! I’m so sorry for your loss. My prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time. Thanks for always reminding us about the preciousness of life and to live inspired! You’ve been an inspiration to me for years! I’m sure God was waiting for Denny with open arms! God’s blessings to all of you!

All these messages share what a hero your Dad was and the hero you have become in his likeness. Peace to you and your family. A life well lived

I am so sorry for your loss. Your father sounds like an amazing person. May his legacy live on in your family.

John-I remember when I first heard you speak on a Cornerstone retreat about 20 years ago. You made such a difference in my life at a time when I needed it the most. You made a difference in my daughter Olivia’s life when she met you as well. My older daughter, actually met your dad at Cornerstone as she was in his small group. She always spoke about what an amazing man he was, just as you did today. She said he was always so giving of himself, just as you are. Meeting you was also a highlight in my mom’s life. Please know we are sending thoughts and prayers to you and your family. Thank you for sharing your dad with us today.

So sorry to hear about your dad. I have been reading your Monday motivations for years and really feel connected to your whole family and this is a tremendous loss for you and all of us as well. Prayers for you always, but especially now!

My heartfelt condolences to you and your family, John. Dad is flying now in paradise! Grinning ear to ear! Love to all of you!

John,
Please accept my sincere and heartfelt condolences regarding the passing of your dad, Denny. He was a member of the Cornerstone Catholic Scripture Study that I joined and we were in Small Group together for several years. He also shared with m a copy of his “ABC’s of Christianity” which I treasure to this day. God’s comfort for you and your family during this difficult time 🙏.

John,
I’m so sorry for your loss. I lost my brother-in-law last week, too.
I don’t know if you’ve heard this song before or not, but I would encourage you to listen to Stephen Curtis Chapman’s “With Hope”. He wrote it after a horrible tragedy occurred in his own family. This song speaks volumes.

John, I am so sorry for your loss. You father sounded like a wonderful man. Wishing you and your family peace and comfort during this time.

What a wonderful Disciple of Christ Denny was to all that knew and loved him. I have no doubt when he arrived at the Golden Gates of Heaven….Christ embraced him and said….”Well done my good and faithful servant! Denny did that in all of the ways you mentioned…and more. I feel so honored and blessed to have known this amazing man and his incredible family. God is indeed so good and gracious! May each feel my millions of heart hugs and prayers

John, I am so sorry to hear of the passing of your father, your Superman. I never had the pleasure of meeting your father, but just by knowing you, I know that he had to be a great man. He led an inspired life and taught you to do so. Please continue to honor him by encouraging all of us to live inspired.

I am so sorry to hear of your loss. My deepest condolences to you and your family. I pray the sweet memories of your super hero will bring you comfort and many moments of joy. I’m lifting you, your Mom, and the O’Learys in my prayers.

I am so very sorry for the loss of your dad, your hero. This is indeed a sweet tribute to him. I see so much of him in you. Your dad spread joy, love, and optimism even as his physical health declined. You had physical challenges as a child and rose above them to spread joy, love, and optimism as an adult. How proud he must be of you, and your siblings, as you continue his beautiful legacy!

Condolences to you and your family. I lost my father 4/3 so I truly feel your loss. Be well my friend and thank you for your continued inspiration.

So sorry for your loss. All you have written about your dad shows that he truly was an amazing human being. May the peace of the Lord be with you as you celebrate his homegoing to heaven.

Dear John,
My condolences to you and your family. I have known your Dad since Our Lady of Lourdes grade school days and your Mom since St Joe High School days. Your Mom and Dad were in love so young and they have been a beautiful couple and soul mates all these years. They have both been great examples to all of us of what love is .
I admire and praise your Mom for her caring for your Dad and how you all are such a loving family. I know your Dad is in heaven enjoying seeing your family together. God bless all the O’Leary’s!

John, I’m sorry to hear about your dad’s passing. As much as he went through since his diagnosis, it must’ve been so hard to let him go. We’ve got our newest saint in Heaven. I’ll pray for him and hopefully he’ll pray for me too! Take care and blessings to your entire family.

John, so sorry for your loss. What an incredible tribute to your father. I met you and your son in Columbus, Ohio back in 2017. You were the guest speaker for the Rockbridge Rock the Road event. Thank you for all you do 🙂

John – I am truly sorry that you have lost your dear father on this side of the veil. I too, as you know, lost my daddy when I was at the age of 6. He was and is my hero for his love for his Savior, Jesus Christ, God, his family, and all that knew him or cared for him in the hospital while in a coma…they too felt his love and found him to be a friend.

I am now getting ready to spread the ashes of my sweet husband who passed unexpectedly and have a Celebration of Life for him on Saturday, June 7. I know how blessed I am to have had him here with me for 31 years of marriage and a friendship from the early age of twelve. Theses losses give us strength as we rely on others and a higher power to carry us along the new adventures with one less loved one beside us.

My heart breaks for you and your family, especially your mama. Give her a hug for me. All will be well…that is a promise.

John, I am so sorry for your loss. People like you and your father can never be replaced but because of how you & he have lived it is a true inspiration for the rest of us. May you feel God’s love and comfort for all.

John – I’m so sorry to hear of this loss. Please accept my condolences. It seems your Dad’s spirit lives on through you and everything you share in these pages and your life. I’m grateful to you and him for that. I look forward to more inspiring stories on Monday mornings about how he touched you and the world from time to time.

John, I would like to add my condolences to you and your family at the loss of your father. I have been down that road, caring for an aging and ill parent, and although they change in some ways physically, they are the same sweet spirit.

May you find comfort in knowing that physically death from this mortal realm is not the end.

Prayers and condolences to you and your family. This year at Tyler 2025 I found you to be the person I needed to hear on that particular day. May you continue to do the good work you do to inspire us all.

John, I would like to add my condolences to you and your family at the loss of your father. I have been down that road, caring for an aging and ill parent, and although they change in some ways physically, they are the same sweet spirit.

May you find comfort in knowing that physically death from thisnmortal realm is not the end.

I’m so sorry for your loss. Sending thoughts and prayers to your family, John. You had an amazing dad.

We met in Granite City, IL many years ago when you visited the school district.
My Brother-in-Law and you share the same name.

Rochelle

Hey John:

I am so sorry for your loss. While we never personally met, I feel like I know your father. He led a full life and inspired you and many others to do the same. Superman never dies! His legacy will live on. His impact will grow within others he has touched. They will share stories and inspire others. His impact will never die.

Praying God will continue to bless you and keep you during this sad time.

I’m so very sorry for your loss. What an amazing man and amazing life. I’m sure he’ll continue to inspire from his heavenly home and continue smiling down with pride on his wonderful family. Praying for you and your loved ones.

Please accept my condolences for your loss. Your Dad was an amazing human being. He left you and your family with a great challenge to follow in his footsteps. You have obviously been doing that all of your life. May God be with you all as you grieve your loss and give thanks for God’s gift of his life.

John and Family- I’m so sorry to hear about the death of your Dad. I would love hearing about the incredible Denny O’Leary in your writing and podcasts. Few of us are blessed with a truly incredible Dad, and yours was magnificent and oh, what a legacy he leaves. Sending lots of prayers of comfort and love during this time for all of you, especially your amazing Mom. May your Dad rest in peace and may you all find comfort in the thought that one day you’ll be united again where there are no humanly restraints. God bless you.

John, What a beautiful tribute to your dad! Thank you for sharing the remarkable man that he was. I am truly sorry for your loss.

So sorry for your loss, John. What a tribute to your father, as you have done throughout his life. Sending blessings, love and hugs. What a beautiful post.

Our Prayers and best wished for you and your family. I met you some years ago and I can tell you it has changed my life forever. The qualities you mentioned of your father I saw in you! Even though I never met him I feel I know him through you! He is with our Lord in Heaven watching all of us!

Every Monday morning, I look forward to reading your inspirational story for the week. And yet, today, with the loss of your father, you continue to show up for us…inspiring, opening our eyes, and sharing your relationships that help us grow in kindness and love. You and the O’Leary family are in my prayers, as you bond together to honor your father. God Bless You!

Dear John and O’Leary family,
Your dad was a true Christian in every respect of the word. Kind, humble, forgiving, loving, supportive, generous, thoughtful – I could go on and on! Parkinson’s is an ugly disease but your dad accepted it and lived with it with grace. Please accept my deepest sympathy on your dad’s passing. May your beautiful memories lead your heart and soul to peace as you mourn the loss of your dad. My prayers were with your dad daily for many years and now are with your family each day. I feel God holding your dad in His loving arms. 🙏💙🙏

John,
Thanks for living your motto to ‘Live Inspired’ with this wonderful tribute which did, indeed, inspire me.
Thank you for the many blessings you give to those who know you!

You are just like your Father. Making the appearance at Missouri Broadcasters Convention was not required, someone else could have taken your place but your determination and dedication allowed all those in attendance to learn about your Great Father (and Mother) and how your life is a reflection of their love and their desire to see their son grow to the man you are now. We thank your Parents for you and the way you were raised. The inspiration you shared with all in attendance at our event is a compliment to you but even more so a compliment to your loving parents.

John, your heart has to ache at the loss of your Superman Dad. I wish I had known him. People like Denny O’Leary who have a perpetual positive outlook and can genuinely smile, even when totally helpless and trusting his care to others has some special quality given by God. The stories you’ve shared about your Dad are inspiring and thought-provoking. Honestly, I believe he was a saint in your midst, for he displayed holiness throughout his life whether he was working, being a Dad and husband, or trapped in a wheelchair due to Parkinson’s disease. I salute this beautiful soul and thank God for sharing his life with you and your family so you could share with all of us. May the O’Leary family celebrate a life well lived!

My condolences to you and your family. I feel your pain. That huge hole in our hearts. Yet we know that Dad is now experiencing “the best is yet to come”!! His humble heart has fueled the journey of his soul to eternal resting place with our Lord and Savior. Love. KC Chuck.

John, so sorry to hear about your Dad’s passing. I know he was an incredible man because he raised an incredible son. Our prayers are with you, your family and especially your Dad.

“Those we love don’t go away, they walk besides us every day.”

My condolences to you and your family, John. Sending prayers for peace and comfort as you grieve the loss of your amazing Dad. Thank you for sharing him with us. Your blog posts always manage to change my perspectives. I always thought I had the best father in the world, but I see that you did also – may those memories be a reassurance that love like that never leaves us.

So very sorry for yours and your family’s loss, John. Our Dave let us know the other day. Your love of your dear, DEAR Dad shown through multiple times over the years in your Monday Motivations, to the extent I felt I knew him. I kept nodding my head in affirmation as I read toDAY’s motivation. Godspeed to you and yours. Hope to catch up soon.

My deepest sympathies to you and your entire family. I’ve enjoyed learning about your remarkable father via your stories. Such a profound impact he made to you all. I can only imagine how this loss must be felt. Peace, strength and courage to you all.

Oh john, I’m so sorry to hear of your dad’s passing. He was a great man and an amazing father, husband and grandfather. Thank you for sharing him with us, so we too, could know him and love him. I hope you find comfort in knowing that your father’s spirit will always be with you – in your heart, in your stories and in the smiles of your beautiful children. Please accept my heartfelt condolences.

Sounds like a man who was truly loved. So sorry for your loss…may he rest in peace; may you all find comfort remembering and sharing your memories with each other.

John, you and your family are in our hearts and prayers as you grieve the death of your remarkable father. His legacy lives on within you. You would have made him incredibly thankful and proud as he witnessed your
resilience and gifts being shared with so many others. Peace, hope and comfort be yours.

John, I’m so sorry to hear of the loss of your dad. I know his decline has been tough on your family and at the same time such a great loss now. I know he’s free of his difficulties today as he takes his rightful spot with our Savior and King.

The thing I’m am struck by this morning as I write this is the great legacy he has left behond in his children and grandchildren. What a testament to a life well lived!

You and your family are in my prayers.

I pray your Father continues to live through you, your siblings and children. Thank you for sharing your love and compassion with us all. May God continue to bless all of the O’Leary;s and Denny rest in peace in his eternal home. I know he will continue to look down on all of your with the same smile.

May God continue to live and hold you and your family as you accept the human loss of a truly good egg! Love and hugs coming your way!

John there are no words that I can express to fill the void you and your family must feel at this time, but I hope that you are taking some comfort at knowing that your Dad was a light that shined beyond your family because of how you have and will continue to share his story and he will live on in the hearts of all of you as you share your memories of him. My condolences to you all at this difficult time.

John & family
My deepest condolences on the loss of your wonderful father
As soon as I saw the title of this week’s message I got a feeling in the pit of my stomach. I loved reading about your dad
You were very blessed to have such an incredible dad
I met you once at an Edward Jones seminar 5 years ago & I was blessed to have met you as you are an incredible motivator
I look forward to your Monday emails every week
My thoughts & prayers are with all of you

Your tribute to your father is an inspiring testament of love. Thank you for sharing your stories to help us understand love, relationship, and true heroism. Prayers for you, your family, and your dad as he meets his Father in heaven.

What a blessed legacy of a life well lived. My heart aches for your family at this deep loss. May God surround you all with His assurance of life hereafter and give you His peace.

Good morning ☀️
Thank you for sharing this beautiful story about your “Superman” dad, Denny, and please accept my heartfelt condolences on his passing. I always enjoy stories about your family, especially your parents.
I lost my uncle Jimmy Santen who was also known as “Superman” a few days ago. He was born with Down Syndrome in 1954. The doctor said my grandparents should institutionalize him as he wouldn’t amount to much. My grandpa’s response was to take him home and treat him just like his four older siblings.
Uncle Jimmy lived a very full and happy life, spreading joy and laughter wherever he went. He lived his last 13 years in the L’Arche Community (his second family) and surrounded by the most loving, caring, compassionate people.
I understand your loss, John. Part of you rejoices that there is no more pain or suffering, but a light has gone out and everything seems just a little grayer right now. Rest in peace, Supermen 😇😇

Our condolences to to you and your family. Thank you for sharing his story and celebrating his life. You’ve clearly been blessed by his life and example and we are blessed by you and the messages you share each week. Thank you.

What a testimony of what a Christ like earthly father should be. I know you will miss him terribly but cherish these wonderful sweet memories and tell his stories so they live on through generations to come. You and all the family will be in our thoughts and prayers.

Oh John, my deepest condolences. May you be buoyed on by the love of your family and friends. What a wonderful man your dad was.

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