Tributes as North Wales paramedic Dermot O’Leary dies aged 64
Tributes have been paid to Dermot O’Leary, a long-serving Welsh Ambulance Service paramedic and operations manager based in Rhyl, who has died aged 64 after a short illness.
Mr O’Leary, who lived in Llandudno, was a familiar figure across North Wales through his work promoting road safety and his close collaboration with other emergency services.
He is survived by his wife Cornelia, son Gregory and daughter Annabel.
Emma Wood, Chief Executive of the Welsh Ambulance Service, said:
“Dermot was deeply passionate about his work, and his dedication to both patients and staff was truly exceptional.
“A highly skilled paramedic, he cared for literally thousands of patients across north Wales over many years, always doing so with warmth and compassion.
“Dermot was a much-respected member of our team who worked closely with partner organisations too.
“All of us at the Welsh Ambulance Service are profoundly saddened by the loss of this kind and considerate gentleman.
“Thank you, Dermot, for everything you gave to WAST – you will be sorely missed.”
Mr O’Leary began his ambulance career with the Essex Ambulance Service before joining the Welsh Ambulance Service in 2001 as an emergency medical technician. He qualified as a paramedic in 2003 and went on to hold several senior roles, becoming duty operations manager in 2020.
Before his death, he was also acting locality manager for Conwy and Denbighshire.
Alongside his operational role, Mr O’Leary was a leading advocate for road safety, helping to deliver the Deadly Mates road safety show to schools and colleges across North Wales and working with other emergency services on educational initiatives.
He also arranged a visit for Ukrainian refugees to Rhyl Ambulance Station in 2023 to offer support following their displacement.
Mr O’Leary served for 26 years with the Territorial Army Welch Fusiliers, part of the Royal Welch Fusiliers, and was a respected trade union representative who helped deliver major incident training to ambulance and emergency services staff.
Chief Constable Amanda Blakeman of North Wales Police said:
“We are deeply saddened by the death of Dermot O’Leary, a dedicated paramedic whose unwavering commitment to saving lives extended far beyond his clinical role.
“Dermot worked closely with officers on road safety initiatives such as Olivia’s Story and Deadly Mates, sharing his expertise, compassion and lived experience to help prevent serious injury and loss of life on our roads.
“Through joint campaigns, educational events and frontline collaboration, Dermot played a vital role in protecting our communities and promoting safer roads for all – his contribution will not be forgotten.”
Chief Fire Officer Dawn Docx of North Wales Fire and Rescue Service also paid tribute, saying:
“It was with the greatest sadness that we were informed of Dermot’s death. His commitment to working in partnership and protecting our communities made a lasting impression on so many.
“As a service, we send our deepest condolences to Dermot’s family, friends and those who worked with him at the Welsh Ambulance Service.”
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