George “Olin” Dillabaugh

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