James Francis Dempsey

Age 90
Bridgewater


James Francis Dempsey died March 28 at Independence Manor in Flemington. Mr. Dempsey was born in Jacksons, Mahanoy City, PA, the son of Laurence Dempsey and Margaret Kane Dempsey.

Mr. Dempsey resided in Somerville and then Bridgewater for over 40 years before moving to Flemington in 2002. He retired as a machinist after many years of employment.

A decorated WW II Army Veteran, he was awarded the Purple Heart after sustaining battle wounds at the Battle of the Bulge in 1944 as well as the European African Middle Eastern Campaign Medal with 3 Bronze Stars. He continued his proud service to his country as a member of the VFW Post 2290 in Manville, The Military Order of the Purple Heart, Chapter 27 and the Disabled American Veterans.

For over 40 years Jim was was a member of the St. Bernard of Clairvaux Church in Bridgewater. "Jim" was predeceased by his wife Claire Reich Dempsey and his granddaughter Celeste Gabriel. Surviving are his daughters Claire Mahon, Maureen Polt and Sharon Mahon and grandchildren Warren Gabriel, Colleen, Nicholas and James Picklo and 8 great grandchildren. He will also be fondly remembered by his many nieces and nephews, the children of his three brothers who predeceased him and were also combat veteransof World Was II.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 10am on Tuesday, April 2, at St. Bernard of Clairvaux Church, Route 22 (Eastbound), Bridgewater. Interment to follow at the church cemetery. Visiting hours 2-4pm and 7-9pm on Monday, April 1, at the Cusick Funeral Home, Somerville.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Chapter 27 Military Order of the Purple Heart, American Legion Post #12, 232 Union Ave. Somerville, NJ 08826