Richard Allen Dempsey

Richard Allen Dempsey, age 77, of Grand Haven, passed away on Friday, May 2, 2025 at home. He was born on June 14, 1947, in Grand Haven, MI, to the late William and Doris (VerHoeks) Dempsey.

Richard graduated from Grand Haven High School and then proudly served his country in the US Navy, on the USS America during the Vietnam War. He later met and married Karen Mae Clark on May 22, 1986 in Grand Haven.

Richard worked for CSX Railroad for many years and he and his father helped build the track that the Pere Marquette #1223 sits on located at 301 N. Harbor Drive in Grand Haven. After retiring from CSX, Richard was employed at the Grand Haven Salvation Army performing maintenance. He and Karen spent many years going RV camping in Gulf Shores, Alabama where they enjoyed new experiences and meeting new people.

He enjoyed playing cards…especially Texas Hold 'Em, going camping, and maintaining the perfect lawn for his family to enjoy. Richard was a man who never hesitated to give a helping hand. He was a humble and hard-working man that always put his family first.

Richard will be forever remembered and missed by his wife of almost 39 years, Karen; his five daughters: Tricia (Mark) DeWitt, Jill (Dave) Anguiano, Barb (Bruce) Bobeldyk, Deanna (Bob) Michael, and Angela Gardner; two sons, Troy Dempsey and Curt Gardner; 13 cherished grandchildren; three brothers: Bill (Jan), Jim (Kay), and Dave (Eden) Dempsey; numerous nieces and nephews; and many close family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his three sisters: Warrene Long, Joyce Welling, and Joan Tuuk; and son-in-law, Kaleo Huihui.

A Celebration of Life for Richard will take place this summer at a later date to be announced. Interment will be at Spring Lake Township Cemetery.

Memorial Contributions may be made to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund.
 

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