PEABODY – Mr. Robert Edward Dempsey, 70 of Peabody, beloved husband of the late Judith (Kimball) Dempsey, died unexpectedly at his home on December 25th, 2024.

Born in Lynn, he was the son of the late Jack and Marion (Leach) Dempsey. He was raised and educated in Peabody and was a graduate of Essex Agricultural and Technical High School. He was the valedictorian of the class of 1971 from Essex Aggie.

Mr. Dempsey was a jack of all trades. He worked for many years in the construction field and was known for his craftmanship and attention to detail. He lived by the moniker of "measure twice and cut once". He was currently employed with I.R.T. at the time of his passing. He was also a Certified Arborist and an amateur Maple Syrup maker.

A true outdoorsman, Bob was in his element while surrounded by nature. He loved to camp, fly fish, rock climb and eat lobster. He was at his most content standing beside a roaring camp fire in the company of friends. At home, he loved to garden and spend time with his dogs, or really anyone's dogs. He had a true sweet spot for animals.

Above all else, he was devoted to his family. Lovingly known as "Papa Jackie" by his grandchildren, Bob was always there to lend a hand to those in need. He was caring and sentimental and truly gave the best hugs. His dry sense of humor would often leave you in stitches, He really was just a sweet human being.

Bob found the love of his life in Judy. They were a couple for 14 years and she was everything to him. He took great care of her and her children. He has now rejoined her in heaven and they are again at each other's side, now for eternity.

Bob is survived by his children, Michelle Adams and her husband, Erik of West Townsend, Michael Farina and his companion, Amanda Potoasznik of Boston and Terry Musgrave and her husband, Michael of Tewksbury, his grandchildren, Kameron, Logan and Haley Adams, Paige Norris and Brianna Stoddard and Derek and Krista Musgrave, his siblings, Warren Dempsey and his wife, Nancy of Danvers and Carol Dempsey and her husband, Joseph McKillop of Chelmsford, his niece and nephew, Veronica McKillop and Mitchell McKillop.

ARRANGEMENTS: Relatives and friends are invited to visiting hours at O'Donnell Cremations – Funerals – Celebrations, 167 Maple St., (rte 62) DANVERS, Monday, Dec. 30th from 4 to 6 P.M. All other services are private. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Bob's memory to the American Cancer Society, PO Box 6704, Hagerstown, MD 21741. To share a memory or offer a condolence, please visit www.odonnellfuneralservice.com.

American Cancer Society
P.O. Box 6704, Hagerstown MD 21741
Tel: 1-800-227-2345
Web: http://www.cancer.org/