It is with great sadness that we announce the death of George “Olin” Dillabaugh who died peacefully and on his own terms on December 11, 2025, at the age of 84 years. Beloved husband of Sandra Dillabaugh (née McCooeye). Devoted father of Bradley (Sue) and Gayle (Adam Walker), proud grandfather to Chloe, Jack, Ava and Ethan.
Dear brother of Lorraine Baker (late Russell), Dorla (late Murray) Baldwin, Judie Hart (late Irvin) and predeceased by Dalton (late Dorothy), Trevor (late Dorothea), Douglas (late Jean), Lorne (late Grace) Dillabaugh, Norma Black (late Bert), Glenda Laird (late Jim). Fondly remembered by many nieces and nephews.
Olin greatly enjoyed the company of others, wherever that may be. He was exceptionally happy at the family cottage near Cobden, in a garage inventing or fixing something, in the outdoors with his brothers and nephews, or helping anyone with a project. He was also a very patient man who demonstrated caring and kindness to those around him and who didn’t take for granted any time he spent with family and friends.
Cherished cottage memories include: skating on the outdoor rink, playing cards, soup on the wood stove, and the many family meals and conversations shared over the years. Olin greatly enjoyed his early morning coffee on the dock, quietly watching and listening to nature.
Olin was a gifted mechanic and was pushed by his curiosity of machines. He explained that when he had a job to do, he wanted it “done as good as he could and as particular as he could, regardless of the time it took”. He had a gift of being able to pre-build something in his head, work and rework a concept, troubleshoot, and come back to a project with “fresh eyes” whenever challenged. “Nothing beats experience” he would frequently say.
To know him was to know honesty, giving, and love. Olin and Sandra were in their 57th year of marriage. “I led a wonderful life and married an excellent woman. The best there could have been.”
In the spring, in lieu of a service, a celebration of life will be held at Stanley’s Olde Maple Lane Farm in Metcalfe.
Immense thanks to his family doctor, Dr. Donald Merrett in Metcalfe and Dr. Patricia Moussette in Winchester for their experience and help over the years. Special thanks to the staff at the Civic Hospital for their dedication, professionalism, and care over the last month. Arrangements entrusted to the Byers Funeral Home, South Mountain (613-989-3836).
Online condolences may be shared at www.byersfuneralhomeinc.ca
8 Condolences for George “Olin” Dillabaugh
Condolences(8)
Jen Meertens says
December 18, 2025 at 5:22 pmSuch great fond memories with Uncle Olin. I remember visiting the garage with dad to get some help with some mechanical project dad was working on. My family and I got to visit with Uncle Olin and Aunt Sandra down in Florida at their trailer on one of our Disney trips! He said it well. A great man, a great woman and a grand life. Until we meet again.
Diane Payne says
December 19, 2025 at 8:14 amSorry to hear of the loss of a great family man, our thoughts are with you at this time Sam & Diane Payne
Sandy jackson says
December 20, 2025 at 12:25 pmSandra and family
Sincere condolences to you all during this time .
Stephanie Summers says
December 19, 2025 at 1:22 pmVery sorry for your loss. Uncle Olin was a truly wonderful great man. He will be greatly missed. Thinking of you, Steve and Stephanie
Cindy (Ault) & Kelly Peters says
December 19, 2025 at 2:50 pmTo Dorla and family, we are so sorry to hear of the loss of your brother. Thinking of you all.
Colleen Latimer says
December 19, 2025 at 10:38 pmSorry to hear of Olin’s passing. Condolences to the family.
Diana Sears says
December 21, 2025 at 11:47 amWe are very sorry for your loss.
Diana Sears (nee McCooeye) and family.
Karen and Marty Kirchmeier says
December 30, 2025 at 6:46 amDear Sandra, Bradley, Gayle and families.
So sorry to hear about Olin. Our deepest sympathy.
Karen and Marty
Obituary Sign Up:
Follow Us