Michael J. Dempsey.
Michael J. Dempsey, 63, of Los Angeles, Calif., and formerly of Haverhill, passed away Sept. 5, after a brief illness with his loving family by his side.
Born in Haverhill, he was the son of Helen T. (Hayes) Dempsey of Haverhill and the late James C. Dempsey. Raised and educated in Haverhill, he attended St. James Grammar School and Whittier Tech, graduating in the class of 1975. He enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in 1976 at Parris Island, SC. He served for 16 years and was honorably discharged. Mike made the rank of Gunnery Sergeant. He was stationed at Camp Pendleton, Okinawa Philippines, Iraq and Saudi Arabia during Desert Storm, San Diego, CA and El Toro, a helicopter base. In 1993 he began a career with the United States Postal Service for over 16 years. Mike also assisted at The Brian Dempsey Insurance Agency and was a Deputy Sheriff Constable issuing summons. He played little league baseball and was a big Red Sox fan. Mike liked working on cars, watching NASCAR and enjoyed going to the Loudon, NH races. He had a strong faith and attended Mass every Sunday. Even though he was considered a serious guy, he had a great sense of humor and always tried to make everyone laugh.
In addition to his loving mother Helen, he is survived by his children Michael J. Dempsey Jr. and his wife Dena of Wentzville, MO; Jennifer Dempsey of Los Angeles, CA; his companion Delsie Barrios of Los Angeles, CA; his brothers, James P. Dempsey and his wife Kathleen; Kevin G. Dempsey; Brian S. Dempsey and his wife Julie; aunt, Lillian H. Levasseur; grandchildren Johnna, Brendan, Ryann and Madelyn; and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his father James C. Dempsey and sister Karen M. Dempsey.
Funeral services will be private. Arrangements are by the Kevin B. Comeau Funeral Home, 486 Main St., Haverhill. Donations may be made in his memory to Veterans Northeast Outreach Center, 10 Reed Street, Haverhill, MA 01830.