Title
To honor, recognize and celebrate the life of Mark Dempsey, 1964-2020.
Body
WHEREAS, Mark Dempsey was born on March 28th, 1964; and
WHEREAS, A man for all seasons, Mark was a lifelong Columbus resident and proud “south-ender”; and
WHEREAS, Mark was devoted to preserving the spirit and life of his Irish ancestors. Mark served as past president and current member of the Shamrock Club of Columbus, organizer of the Saint Patrick’s Day Parade, member of the Ancient Order of Hibernians; and
WHEREAS, Mark lived to serve others, and never wanted for the public eye. Mark served in key roles for the City of Columbus, as City Council Budget Chief; in roles for the State of Ohio, and for Franklin County governments; and
WHEREAS, Mark was owner and founder of Dempsey’s Food & Spirits downtown, and reviver of the historical Jury Room. A fervently active citizen, Mark decorated the walls of his restaurant with photos of elected officials of every gender, nationality, creed, orientation, and party; and
WHEREAS, Mark was devoted to making Columbus a welcoming city, and he believed that nothing created community like a good meal. Mark was a passionate citizen of Columbus, and a true Irishman who greeted everyone he met as family; and
WHEREAS, A Columbus original, and descendant of Rev. Francis X. Specht, founding pastor of Saint Mary’s Catholic Church in German Village, Mark was a larger than life figure, someone whose charity and humor knew no limits, a remarkable storyteller who was loved by all who met him; and
WHEREAS, Mark is survived by the love of his life, Megan Stapleton Dempsey, and his five children; Allison (Brady), Celia (Geff), Michaela, Conor, and Mary Kate; seven grandchildren: Ava, Norah, Rowan, Haddie, Logan, Marek, a namesake on the way; his uncles James and Jerry Dempsey; Aunt Mary Dempsey; cousins; and many friends; now therefore,
BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF COLUMBUS: That this Council does hereby honor, recognize, and celebra...
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