Timothy R. Dempsey

Timothy Robert Dempsey, age 61, a longtime resident of Milford, passed away on May 27, 2023. He was born on October 28, 1961 in Battle Creek, Michigan; son of Robert and Janice (Flanders) Dempsey. Tim attended Lakeview High School in Battle Creek then enlisted in the Navy in 1980, deployed on the USS Carl Vinson and also served on the USS South Carolina. Tim married the love of his life, Jodie Gatteri on December 7, 2007; they were dedicated to each other for over 15 years.

Tim began a lifelong career as a residential plumber, starting and finishing his career at Plymouth Plumbing. He loved anything that would go fast, whether it was off-roading on ATVs, mud bogging, or riding a jet ski, Tim pushed the limits of the vehicle's speed. He was always up for a party, BBQ, or a family gathering; sometimes sneaking off to have fun with the kids. He made the best potato salad his grandkids have ever eaten. At Christmas, he dressed as Santa with Jodie as Mrs. Claus, for the kids, paying detailed attention to their interests and wishes.

Somewhat of an animal whisperer, Tim had a deep love for all animals, but especially cats and tigers. He would often come home from work telling stories to his family of the pets that he encountered that day on the job. Tim’s love for animals extended to a pair of chipmunks, he named Alvin and Shorty, that would eat out of his hand. He will be deeply missed by his beloved cats Stella and Sweetie Pi.

Tim was a reliable friend, he could often be found helping his family, friends, and neighbors with DIY projects because he could fix anything. Tim was also a fan of the Detroit Tigers and Michigan Indy wrestling, an Independence Pro Wrestling organization. He enjoyed going on as many cruises as he could, his favorite destination was Half Moon Cay in the Caribbean where he rode a horse in the ocean. Tim was a funny guy with an inappropriate sense of humor that made others laugh.

Tim is survived by his wife Jodie; his daughter Elizabeth (Joey) Sutton; his stepsons, Chad Flannery and Jimmy Flannery; his brother Charles Dempsey; his sister Jane (Robert) Stockton; and his grandchildren, Kaila, Abby, and Josh. He was also loved by the Gatteri Family; many nieces and nephews; his long-time friend and neighbor, Wilson; and his dear friend Jeff. He was preceded in death by his parents and his stepson TJ Flannery.

Visitation will be held Saturday, June 24, 2023 from 1pm until 3pm with a memorial service beginning at 3pm at Casterline Funeral Home, 122 West Dunlap, Northville. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital , 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or to your local animal shelter.