Obituary of Maureen Frances Herlihey

It is with broken hearts and great sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Maureen Herlihey (née Bull) on Wednesday, October 15, at the age of 66. 

She leaves behind her loving and devoted husband of 42 years, David and her children, Matthew (Sara Gamberg), Katrina (Claudio Micucci) and Joshua (Jennie Pearson).

She will be deeply missed by her mother, Alice (the late Gordon Bull); her grandchildren Olivia and Liam; her sisters, brothers and their partners: Suzanne (Ron Martin), Catherine (Jeff Schmalz), Jennifer Baizana, Thomas (Radelle Blum), Margaret (Frederick Tavenier), Cynthia (Kevin Fullan), Mary Ellen (Paul Stephen), and Anthony (Fran Bull). She will also be remembered by David’s parents and family: Paul and Marlene Herlihey, Joanne Bourgon, Stephen Herlihey, Jeff (MaryJane Herlihey), and all 22 of her special nieces and nephews.

Maureen grew up in Europe and Old Ottawa South. The seventh of nine children, she loved her big family dearly. After attending high school at St. Pius, she went to Algonquin college and then started a career in early childhood education. With her gift of patience and her loving nature, she specialized in working with children with special needs. She was happiest when she was with her family, especially her children. A natural mother, her joy beamed through her smile as she raised her family. Among her favourite things to do was spend time at her cottage with family and friends. She was taken from us way too early, and that hurts deeply. Anyone who met Maureen immediately felt her natural beauty and her ability to make you feel important. She is now with her father. She was loved by all.

Family and friends are invited to visit from 2:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. and from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, October 21, 2025 at Cole Funeral Services and Pinecrest Remembrance, 2500 Baseline Road, Ottawa.  A Memorial Mass will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, October 22, 2025 at St. John the Apostle Parish, 2340 Baseline Road, Ottawa. A time of fellowship and refreshments will follow in the Church Hall. Maureen will be laid to rest at St. Malachy Cemetery, in Mayo, Quebec.

In lieu of flowers, and in memory of Maureen, donations may be made to Defeat Multiple System Atrophy (MSA) Canada, 3041 Dougall Avenue, Suite 208, Windsor, Ontario N9E 1S3.