It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our father, Alan O’Connor.
Al was born on December 17, 1956, in Edinburgh, Scotland, to Ed O’Connor and Janet O’Connor. He carried his Scottish roots with pride throughout his life and was known for his hardworking nature, quick wit, and deep appreciation for the outdoors.
Al was a devoted father to his daughters, Jessica O’Connor (John) and Katelyn Morley (Kyle), whom he loved beyond measure. He was also a proud and loving grandfather to Jayven, Mikayla, Josslyn, and Jack, who brought him endless joy and laughter. He was proud of the families his daughters built and always enjoyed spending time with John and Kyle.
Al is also lovingly remembered by his mother, Janet O’Connor; his sister Kathleen Ross (Neil); his niece Kim (Jeff); his nephew Keith (Heather); and his great-nephews Connor and Curtis and great-niece Nora. He shared a special bond with them all and cherished the time they spent together over the years.
For 36 years, Al dedicated his career to the Ministry of Natural Resources, retiring in 2015 as a Prescribed Burn and Fire Behaviour Specialist. His work was more than a career—it was his passion. He took immense pride in protecting and managing Ontario’s forests and was happiest when he was outdoors doing the work he loved. The colleagues he worked alongside became lifelong friends, and the impact of his dedication and expertise will be remembered by many.
Outside of work, Al’s greatest passion was fishing. Whether he was out on the water, planning his next trip, or tying flies at home, fishing brought him endless happiness. His family now finds themselves the proud owners of enough fishing lures, handmade flies, and homemade jigs to outfit a tackle shop for years to come—a collection that serves as a fitting reminder of our Dad.
Al will also be greatly missed by his long time friends Tony Yanni, Mike Klem, Ian McConnachie, Rodney Stamarski, Dale Stamarski, and many others who shared in his adventures, stories, and laughter throughout the years. The friendships he built were lifelong, and the countless memories made on fishing trips, around campfires, and through endless conversations will not be forgotten.
Al will be remembered for his determination, dedication to his family and career, his love of the outdoors, and his ability to find joy in the simple things in life. His legacy lives on in the memories he created, the friendships he treasured, and the family he loved so dearly.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the Ontario Provincial Police and the EMS personnel in Dryden for their compassion, professionalism, and kindness during a difficult time. Your care and support will always be remembered and deeply appreciated.
Forever loved, forever remembered, and forever missed.
As per his wishes, there will be no service to follow.
In lieu of flowers and donations, spend time with loved ones…
Condolences(14)-
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Cindy Coles says
July 20, 2026 at 1:16 pmJess, John and family – I was so sorry to hear of Al’s passing. His humour and mischievous smiles will be missed. He had a way with words and brought laughter to those around him. Hugs to you all <3
Roger Lemieux says
July 20, 2026 at 1:45 pmCondolences to Jess, John and family. Al will truly be missed. Was a teacher, mentor and most importantly a friend.
Doug Gibb says
July 20, 2026 at 2:23 pmMy deepest condolences on your loss. Al was a great guy and always filled the room with his big presence.
Wayne A Thompson says
July 20, 2026 at 2:55 pmGod Bless you Big Al – the heavens now have a behaviour specialist. Al, would you mind putting in a good word for us still here whose ‘behaviour’ needs your mentoring?
To Al’s daughters, grandchildren and son-in-laws, know that Al will be watching over each of you every day. His memories will never fade.
The 1st time I met Al was on KEN23 at Macintosh (a fitting Scottish name for this wee community) where we were all staying inside a schoolhouse – each group laid out their air mattresses and sleeping bags in one of the empty classrooms – we were in the room that Al and his group were assigned to.
A person who knew Al warned us that Al snored – loudly. We dismissed his comments. That evening Al fell asleep right away and true to be said, the snoring began. People in the room (about 20) starting throwing running shoes in Al’s direction to no avail. The snoring continued. Our crew got up and moved to another school room as did others.
The next morning when Al woke up he was the only one in the entire school room, surrounded by many different brands of running shoes. We all – including Al – had a good laugh.
Thanks for your mentoring Al – I would not have had the opportunity to be an FBAN on both the Broughten and Welch Ontario IMT on 2 separate BC project fire deployments; without the time you selflessly gave to help me better understand our craft.
Thank you my friend.
W. A. Thompson
Retired FBAN and AFFES Technician
Lindsay Marks says
July 20, 2026 at 4:22 pmSo sorry for your loss, Jess and family. Thinking if you.
Kevin Andrews says
July 20, 2026 at 6:13 pmCondolences
Louise Ross says
July 20, 2026 at 6:15 pmTo the family,
I’m so sorry for your loss. It’s never easy to lose a parent. Big Al was far too young, and his light will be missed. May his memories bring you comfort and always stay close to your hearts. Sending love and big hugs
Susan Paquette says
July 20, 2026 at 6:58 pmSorry to hear of Al’s passing.
Sending my sincere and deepest condolences to Al’s family. I will miss his stories….he had many.
Susan Paquette
Sandy Campbell says
July 21, 2026 at 7:18 amBetty and I are truly saddened to learn of Alan’s death. We know he has left a ‘strong presence’ for his Family and friends.
In our thoughts.
Sandy & Betty Campbell (Scotland and Ontario)
Deirdre Monaghan says
July 23, 2026 at 11:22 amThe fire family of MNR is small and the news of Al passing has traveled this country. Please know that Al was truly one of the great ones and will be missed by many. His influence and impact great. My thoughts and love during this time to family and friends closest to Al, may his memory bring a smile or laugh when you need it most.
Deirdre Monaghan says
July 23, 2026 at 3:20 pmThoughts and love go to his family, friends and MNR family at this time. Such a great loss. Al was always a person to bring a laugh or a smile to whatever was going on. Condolences.
Mark Marlowe says
July 25, 2026 at 6:30 pmWow!! How do you spell “fire”??? I’ll tell you, Big Al”!!! Was on a few outings with this man! His experience……!! He was able to “dumb it down “ and teach me so much! Yes, 1995 & 1999! Learning curve for me! A man of knowledge!!
Bill Hudson says
July 28, 2026 at 9:42 amCondolences to the family, I worked with Al for a number of years, Al had a hand in helping to train many forestry workers annually, when there was still a paper mill in the Fort Frances District. He was a master instructor who was truly in his element when asked to talk about fire.
Shawna says
August 2, 2026 at 2:22 pmCondolences to Jessica, John, Joss, Jack and the extended family. I enjoyed every deployment I shared with Al, our daily check-in’s and chats about everything under the sun. I will miss his stories.. So sorry for your sudden loss.
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