Michael P. O'Leary, Md.

Dr. Michael P. O'Leary of Boston Dies at 74

Dr. Michael P. O'Leary, Boston physician, educator, and civic leader, died Saturday, July 4th in Marion, Mass at the age of 74 (from Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (CJD)).

Born in Framingham, Massachusetts, Michael dedicated his life to medicine, education, and service. A graduate of Governor Dummer Academy and Harvard College, he earned his medical degree from George Washington University School of Medicine and a Masters of Public Health from Harvard University, before completing his residency and fellowship training in Boston and California. He spent his career as a Urologist at Brigham and Women's Hospital, where he cared for generations of patients, mentored young physicians, and served as Professor of Surgery at Harvard Medical School. His commitment to service extended well beyond Boston. Through the Indian Health Service, he volunteered in the Navajo Nation, where he provided care to Native American communities and trained physicians, reflecting his lifelong dedication to healing and education. Respected internationally by colleagues and patients alike, he was known for his compassion, integrity, and unwavering commitment to excellence in medicine.

Michael also devoted himself to the Boston Athletic Association, the organization that conducts the Boston Marathon. A collegiate runner and longtime member of the BAA, he served as its President and Chair of the Board of Governors from 2017 to 2023. His leadership reflected both his love of the sport and his deep commitment to the Boston community. An avid and passionate golfer, he was a proud member of The Kittansett Club in Marion, Massachusetts; The Country Club in Brookline, Massachusetts; Hole-in-the-Wall Golf Club in Naples, Florida; Vasari Country Club in Bonita Springs, Florida; and the United States Seniors' Golf Association (USSGA).

Above all, Michael was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, colleague, and friend. He cherished his family and was admired for his intelligence, quiet humor, generosity, and thoughtful nature.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Dr. Kathleen J. Welch; his daughter, Jacqueline G. O'Leary, her husband Joseph Greene and his granddaughter, Pauline Greene, of South Weymouth, Massachusetts; his son, Dr. James J. O'Leary IV of Boston; his siblings, John A. O'Leary of Westwood, Mass. William F. O'Leary of Hillsborough, California, Richard H. O'Leary of Greenwich, CT and Kathryn Shilale of Medfield, Mass; along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, treasured friends, former colleagues, and grateful patients. He is predeceased by his parents, Dr. James J. O'Leary Jr. and Jacqueline Hope O'Leary and his older brother James J. O'Leary III.

Michael's legacy will endure through the lives he touched as a physician, teacher, mentor, and leader, and through the love and respect he inspired in all who knew him.

Funeral and a celebration of Michael's life will be held on Saturday July 11th at Holy Name Church, 1689 Centre St., West Roxbury at 11:00 AM. A Reception will immediately follow. Burial will be private.

Donations in his memory may be made to: CJD Foundation, Akron Ohio https://cjdfoundation.org/donate/